Lok Adalats and Alternate Dispute Resolution mechanisms have improved access to justice but face limitations in delivering substantive justice. Discuss. (Answer in 250 words)

Lok Adalats and ADRs improving access to justice

Lok Adalats & ADRs improving access to justice

1. Last mile delivery of justice through punctate courts & Lok Adalats.

2. Faster resolution of disputes without formal litigation (eg cases under Mediation Act of 2023).

3. Pre-negotiated resolution procedures through arbitration (eg Arbitration Act of 2021).

4. Reducing burden on judiciary - allowing it to focus on the substantial question of law.

5. Reduces cost of legal proceedings.

6. Gives legal sanction to traditional mechanisms of dispute resolution.

Limitations faced in delivering substantive justice

1. Increasing instance of appeals increase cost & time of litigation.

2. ADR procedures themselves are time consuming.

3. Increasing pendency in Lok Adalats in several areas.

4. Lack of judicial members like Nyaya Adhikari to sum ADR

5. Absence of funds with NALSA leading to irregular conduction of Lok Adalats.

6. Limited access to free legal aid during ADR procedures.

7. Concerns over violation of the principles of Natural Justice in some cases.

Schemes for inclusive justice (eg SATHE 2.0)

Without proper financing & support ADRs will fell prey to the same ills it was meant to solve.