New Delhi, August 3:
During the commemoration of the Special Lok Adalat week, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud highlighted critical issues. It is within the judicial process, noting how these often compel litigants to accept settlements. This could be below their legal entitlements to avoid prolonged litigation.
Speaking at the event marked the end of the Special Lok Adalat week. This ran from July 29 to August 2, CJI Chandrachud shared anecdotes to illustrate these points. Seven Supreme Court benches handled Lok Adalat matters each afternoon. Thus, striving for settlements through direct interaction with the parties involved.
Citing a motor accident case where a claimant accepted a Rs. 5 lakh settlement despite being entitled to Rs. 8 lakhs, the CJI noted, “People often accept any settlement offered as they are fed up with the judicial process and just want to get away from courts.” He emphasised that the judicial process itself can become a punishment, urging judges to seek fair outcomes rather than allowing settlements that reflect societal inequalities.
The CJI mentioned a case where Justice Vikram Nath rejected a Rs. 1 lakh settlement, awarding Rs. 6 lakhs instead, and another involving a 90% disability where a minimal settlement was initially accepted. These cases underscore how litigants are often willing to settle for less to escape the judicial system.
During trial
He praised public sector insurance companies for their cooperation and ethical commitment during the Special Lok Adalat. Highlighting a case where the compensation for a father who lost his son in a road accident was increased from Rs. 3.84 lakhs to Rs. 7.86 lakhs, plus an additional Rs. 4 lakhs, he underscored the need to institutionalise the process of justice through Lok Adalats.
“Institutions are slow to change and often face numerous objections, but once a change is implemented, it becomes a lasting part of the system,” said the CJI, emphasising the importance of making such initiatives a permanent part of the judicial process.
CJI Chandrachud also highlighted the disconnect between the Supreme Court and the faces behind the cases, stressing the importance of remembering the human element in judicial decisions. “We are all bound together as one human chain in this indefinable bond of humanity which defines our existence,” he said, noting the significance of the Lok Adalat as a reminder of the court’s deep association with citizens’ lives.
The CJI acknowledged the extensive cooperation and involvement of multiple stakeholders in organising the Special Lok Adalat. He noted that the Supreme Court serves all of India, with a diverse registry contributing valuable knowledge.
Highlighting a common misconception, the CJI shared that a distinguished former civil servant was surprised by the Supreme Court’s involvement in smaller cases, reflecting a belief that the court only handles high-profile cases. He clarified that the Supreme Court, envisioned by stalwarts like Dr. Ambedkar, serves a society lacking access to justice, not just dealing with a limited number of constitutional cases like the US Supreme Court.
Lok Adalat panels
The Lok Adalat panels, consisting of two judges (three in some cases) and two bar members, aimed to give advocates ownership of the institution. This structure, the CJI noted, facilitated effective settlements by addressing potential pitfalls and ensuring thorough resolutions.
He emphasised the importance of involving the Bar in such initiatives to convey that the legal profession is dedicated to delivering justice, not just earning a livelihood. “What motivates us as judges and lawyers is the cause of delivering justice to common citizens,” he said.
Secretary General of the Supreme Court, Atul Kurhekar, detailed the preparatory process for the Lok Adalat. He initiated in April 2024 by CJI Chandrachud. Extensive discussions and identification of suitable cases for settlement were part of the process. Thus, leveraging virtual modes to bring justice to litigants’ doorsteps.
During the event, scholarship cheques were distributed to 1,645 children who lost both parents to COVID-19. The letters of compassionate appointment in Coal India were handed to 424 candidates identified in pre-litigation cases.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, referencing Lord Krishna’s mediation in the Mahabharata, underscored the importance of amicable dispute resolution. He acknowledged the settlement of over 1,000 cases, including civil, matrimonial, and land acquisition disputes, during the Special Lok Adalat.
