Public urged to seize the opportunity for amicable dispute resolution
Shimla, May 3: In a push to ensure quick and amicable settlement of disputes, more than 73,000 cases have been identified across Himachal Pradesh for disposal during the upcoming National Lok Adalat, slated for May 10, 2025, in all courts of the state.
The initiative is being held under the patronage of Hon’ble Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia, Chief Justice of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh and Patron-in-Chief of the H.P. State Legal Services Authority, and under the able guidance of Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, Judge of the High Court and Executive Chairman of the Authority.
The State Legal Services Authority has already set the wheels in motion, mobilizing local bodies, Panchayati Raj representatives, NGOs, para-legal volunteers, and public transport services to spread awareness about the event.
Awareness campaigns using IEC material are being run across the state to inform litigants and citizens about the opportunity to resolve pending disputes amicably, quickly, and without any cost.
In a move to make the process more accessible, an online ePay (eCourts Digital Payment) system has been made available for Motor Vehicle Challans, particularly in courts dealing with traffic violations, making it easier for people to settle such matters without physically appearing in court.
So far, regular coordination meetings are being held with Bar Associations, banks, financial institutions, and insurance companies to ensure effective identification and listing of cases for the Lok Adalat. The aim is to promote pre-litigation settlements and clear long-pending disputes.
Calling media a key partner in this effort, the Authority has appealed to print and electronic media for wide coverage, urging them to spread the word about the Lok Adalat and help people avail of this opportunity.
“This is not just about reducing pendency. It’s about delivering speedy and accessible justice to people at their doorsteps,” an official spokesperson of the Authority said.
