Chhattisgarh Holds First-Ever State-Level Evaluation Programme for National Lok Adalats

Raipur: In a collaborative effort by the Chhattisgarh State Legal Services Authority and the Chhattisgarh High Court, a State-Level Meet on the performance and evaluation of National Lok Adalats in 2023 was held in Bilaspur. The event was graced by Chhattisgarh High Court Chief Justice and Chhattisgarh State Legal Services Authority Patron in Chief 

Ramesh Sinha. The event witnessed the participation of distinguished guests, including the Judge of the Chhattisgarh High Court and the Executive Chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Legal Services Authority Gautam Bhaduri, and the Judge of the Chhattisgarh High Court and Chairman of the High Court Legal Service Committee, Sanjay K. Agrawal, along with several Judges of the Chhattisgarh High Court.

Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha commended the special efforts of judicial officers in their performance and evaluation during the State-Level Meet. He underscored that this event marks the first-ever State-level meeting at the Chhattisgarh High Court to acknowledge the commendable work of judicial officers in the National Lok Adalats of 2023.

The inception of Lok Adalats has not only added a new chapter to alternative dispute resolution but has also enriched the distribution of justice in India. This approach, grounded in the principles of Gram Swaraj, aims to fulfill the provisions of Article 39A of the Indian Constitution, providing equal justice and free legal assistance to all.

Sinha highlighted that historically, disputes were resolved amicably amongst parties in villages without resorting to the courts. Villages traditionally turned to Panchayats, using mediation principles to seek a peaceful resolution. This age-old practice reflects an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process deeply rooted in Indian history. ADR’s advantage lies in its ability to expedite dispute resolution and cost-effectiveness, effectively avoiding litigation delays.

Praising the remarkable efforts of judicial officers, Chief Justice Mr. Sinha mentioned that over 1,178,357 (1.17 million) cases were resolved through National Lok Adalats in Chhattisgarh in 2023, with more than 78 per cent of these cases being settled through pre-litigation methods.

While acknowledging the expectations placed on the judiciary, Sinha stressed the need for judicial officers to enhance their understanding of legal principles for precise interpretation and application. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of ensuring swift, time-bound judicial proceedings, reduction of unnecessary adjournments, and the adoption of technology-driven solutions to streamline the justice delivery system. Transparency, accountability, integrity, and ethical conduct were underscored as essential attributes for judicial officers.

The successful National Lok Adalats organized in the state have achieved remarkable results, with more than a million cases resolved and a strong focus on pre-litigation settlements. Chief Justice Sinha praised the dedication of Lok Adalat Judges and motivated them to continue their efforts toward positive outcomes. He also looked ahead to the upcoming National Lok Adalats scheduled for December 9, 2023.