Grassroots Dispute Resolution: The Functioning And Effectiveness Of Lok Adalat’s In India
- IJLLR Journal
- May 6
- 1 min read
Harsh Kumar Singh, LL.M., Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Language University, Lucknow, UP.
ABSTRACT
The quest for timely and affordable justice in India has long driven the exploration of alternative mechanisms beyond the conventional court system. Lok Adalats, or "People's Courts," represent a distinctive model of grassroots dispute resolution rooted in principles of conciliation and community justice. This research critically examines the functioning, structure, and effectiveness of Lok Adalats in India, focusing on their role in alleviating the burden on formal courts and delivering swift, cost-effective justice. Drawing on statutory frameworks such as the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and analysing empirical data from selected states, this study evaluates the quality of outcomes, public satisfaction, and procedural fairness associated with Lok Adalats. The research also addresses key limitations, including the voluntary nature of participation, limited enforceability in complex cases, and potential compromise of legal rights. Ultimately, the paper seeks to understand whether Lok Adalats are fulfilling their promise as a people-centric ADR mechanism and what policy reforms could enhance their impact in the Indian justice delivery system.
Keywords: Lok Adalat, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Legal Services Authorities Act, grassroots justice, informal courts, access to justice, community mediation, judicial backlog, dispute resolution in India, procedural fairness.
