A. Concept
Lok Adalat is a method of alternate dispute resolution that is
governed under Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 (hereinafter
referred to as "Act"). Lok Adalat or
People's Courts is one of the forums that plays a vital role in
settling disputes amicably thereby minimizing the burden on
Courts.
The main purpose of establishment of Lok Adalat as an alternate
dispute resolution is, "to provide free and competent
legal services to the weaker sections of the society to ensure that
opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by
reason of economic or other disabilities and to organize Lok Adalat
to secure that the operation of the legal system promotes justice
on a basis of equal opportunity"1 . Lok Adalat
has the statutory status under the said Act. Lok Adalat has many
advantages such as low cost involved, less hassle and
confidentiality of all proceedings2. It is important to
note that the decree passed in Lok Adalat is final and
