Organization of Lok Adalats

Lok Adalats are organized by the Legal Services Authorities at the national, state, and district levels. The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) is responsible for organizing national Lok Adalats, while the State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs) are responsible for organizing state and district Lok Adalats.

The composition of a Lok Adalat:

A Lok Adalat is presided over by a panel of judges, lawyers, and other professionals. The number of members on the panel varies, but it typically includes a retired judge of the Supreme Court or High Court, a sitting or retired district judge, and one or two lawyers. The panel may also include representatives from the government, the legal aid services, and the community.

The powers of a Lok Adalat:

Lok Adalats have the power to settle disputes through conciliation and compromise. They can also award compensation to the parties to the dispute. The decisions of Lok Adalats are binding on the parties.

The procedure of a Lok Adalat:

The procedure of a Lok Adalat is informal and simplified. The parties to the dispute are encouraged to participate in the settlement process and reach an amicable agreement. The Lok Adalat may hear the parties’ arguments, review the evidence, and ask questions. The Lok Adalat may also suggest a settlement to the parties.

Here are some MCQs on the organization of Lok Adalats:

  1. Which of the following is not a function of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)?
    • To organize national Lok Adalats
    • To monitor and evaluate the implementation of legal aid programmes
    • To lay down policies and principles for making legal services available
    • To appoint legal aid lawyers
    • To organize state Lok Adalats
    • The correct answer is to organize state Lok Adalats. This is a function of the State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs).
  2. What is the maximum amount that can be awarded by a Lok Adalat?
    • ₹50,000
    • ₹100,000
    • ₹200,000
    • ₹300,000
    • ₹500,000
    • The correct answer is ₹50,000. The maximum amount that can be awarded by a Lok Adalat is ₹50,000.
  3. What is the settlement rate of Lok Adalats?
    • 50%
    • 60%
    • 70%
    • 80%
    • 90%
    • The correct answer is 80%. The settlement rate of Lok Adalats is around 80%, which means that most disputes are resolved amicably.