| Paper | GS Paper 2 |
| Word Limit | 150 words |
| Syllabus Topic | Structure, organisation and functioning of the Judiciary; dispute redressal mechanisms |
Model Answer
Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals are Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) bodies. They cut court pendency, in the spirit of Article 39A (equal justice and free legal aid).
Two ADR routes: settle by consent or decide by award
Lok Adalats
- Statutory status under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
- Settle disputes by compromise; no court fee.
- Award is deemed a decree of a civil court; final, with no appeal.
Arbitration Tribunals
- Formed by agreement of parties under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.
- Arbitrator adjudicates and gives a binding award; parties bear the cost.
- Award can be challenged only on limited grounds (Section 34).
Civil and Criminal Cases
- Lok Adalats: Civil, family and motor accident cases, plus compoundable criminal offences. Non-compoundable offences are excluded.
- Arbitration: Only civil and commercial disputes. Criminal matters are non-arbitrable (Booz Allen v. SBI Home Finance, 2011).
Conclusion
Lok Adalats deliver consent-based people’s justice, while arbitration offers expert private adjudication. Strengthening both can cut delays and bring justice closer to citizens.
Related PYQs
- Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India. (2023)
- What are the major changes brought in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 through the recent Ordinance promulgated by the President? How far will it improve India’s dispute resolution mechanism? Discuss. (2015)
- Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world’s most powerful judiciary? (2024)
Also read: Governor’s Ordinance Power – GS2 2022 Model Answer
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