Supreme Court’s Lok Adalat Week: It’s The Supreme Court’s small scale work that reflects its Constitutional Mission and Legacy

In a landmark occasion marking its 75th anniversary, the Supreme Court launched a week-long Lok Adalat on July 29th, heralded as a ‘mega settlement drive’ to fast-track case resolutions and alleviate judicial backlogs. 

920 cases were successfully resolved

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) expressed initial concerns about the volume of work, stating that the Court started with seven benches. However, by Thursday, the demand was so high that the number of benches was increased to thirteen. This surge in activity underscored the critical role of such initiatives in the judicial system. According to the Supreme Court, a total of 14,045 cases were earmarked for the Special Lok Adalat. Of these, 4,883 cases were presented before the Lok Adalat benches, and 920 cases were successfully resolved.

Supreme Court is not just for big ticket cases: CJI

Addressing the purpose of handling smaller cases, the CJI emphasised that the Supreme Court’s mission extends beyond high-profile cases. Reflecting on the vision of the Constitution’s framers, including B.R. Ambedkar noted that Article 136 was included to ensure that the Court serves as a beacon of justice in a society with limited access to legal resources. The intention was to create a court that truly engages with the everyday lives of common citizens, rather than focusing solely on landmark constitutional issues. 

The Special Lok Adalat was held under the theme “Nyay Sab Ke Dwaar” (Justice at Every Doorstep), embodying the principle of bringing justice directly to people’s homes. 

​​The cases settled included not just cheque bounce cases, but tax disputes, motor accident compensation claims, compassionate appointments, matrimonial cases and pension matters. 

“What is lost to so many people is the small job that we do in the Supreme Court”: CJI Source: ANI

Wishes to make Lok Adalat a permanent feature

The CJI highlighted the significant impact of Lok Adalats, noting that this week’s event was a reminder of the Court’s commitment to being deeply connected with the lives of its citizens. He commended the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) for its role in resolving an impressive 8.1 crore cases in 2023, which facilitated the success of the Lok Adalat.

Looking ahead, the CJI expressed a desire to institutionalise the Lok Adalat process, ensuring it becomes a permanent feature of the judicial system rather than a one-off event. He acknowledged the slow pace of institutional change but remained optimistic that meaningful reforms, once implemented, would have lasting effects.

Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and several Supreme Court judges attended the event, reinforcing the significance of the Lok Adalat as a cornerstone of justice.

Understanding the Hierarchy of Indian Courts 

In the Indian judicial system, the Supreme Court is the highest court of appeal, primarily dealing with significant constitutional and legal issues. Below this are the High Courts in each state, which handle appeals from lower courts and have jurisdiction over state matters. At the district level, trial courts address a wide range of cases, including civil and criminal matters.

Understanding Lok Adalats

Lok Adalats, or people’s courts, are designed to provide a quicker and less formal means of resolving disputes. They focus on settling cases through mutual agreement and are instrumental in reducing the burden on traditional courts. By facilitating amicable settlements, Lok Adalats aim to make justice more accessible and efficient, reflecting the Supreme Court’s ongoing commitment to serving the needs of its citizens.

During the Lok Adalat Week, Lok Adalats were being held in seven Courtrooms, with special video conferencing facilities made available in all. TheCourt had reportedly instructed all High Courts to implement video conferencing facilities, enabling people from across the country to participate in proceedings before the Court.