In a significant move aimed at strengthening the justice delivery system, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved the establishment of two Permanent Lok Adalats—one each in Jammu and Srinagar—for the first time in the Union Territory. The proposal has now been forwarded to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for final approval.

According to official sources, the Permanent Lok Adalats will be constituted under Section 22-B of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, enabling faster and more accessible resolution of disputes, particularly those related to public utility services.

Sources said that following the implementation of the Central legislation providing for Permanent Lok Adalats, the Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Department, headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, initiated consultations with the High Court of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regarding their establishment.

The High Court had proposed setting up four Permanent Lok Adalats, but in the first phase, the Government has approved two courts, one each in Jammu and Srinagar.

Officials said the Permanent Lok Adalats will be headed by District Judges, ensuring an institutional mechanism for the speedy settlement of disputes without prolonged litigation.

At present, Lok Adalats in Jammu and Kashmir are conducted periodically at different locations to facilitate amicable settlement of pending cases. With the establishment of Permanent Lok Adalats, the alternative dispute resolution mechanism will become a regular and permanent feature, significantly improving public access to affordable and expeditious justice.

After receiving the Lieutenant Governor’s approval, the Government is expected to issue the formal notification, paving the way for the operationalisation of the first-ever Permanent Lok Adalats in Jammu and Kashmir. The move is expected to reduce the burden on regular courts while promoting faster disposal of disputes through conciliation and settlement.(KNC)