Question

The Indian Legal system has evolved a new technique of alternate dispute resolution which is popularly known as Lok Adalat. It owes its origin to the statutory recognition by passing of

• A. Legal Service Corporation Act, 1974
• B. Legal aid and advice Act, 1949
• C. Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987
• D. None

Hint:

Remember key Acts and the year they were passed, especially for procedural and institutional laws. For example, Legal Services Authorities Act (1987), Arbitration and Conciliation Act (1996), Consumer Protection Act (1986, now 2019).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the legislation that gave statutory status to Lok Adalats in India. Lok Adalats are a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) where disputes are settled by compromise or settlement.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The concept of Lok Adalat (People's Court) existed in India's legal history, but it gained statutory backing with the enactment of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. This Act was passed to constitute legal services authorities to provide free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of society and to organize Lok Adalats to ensure that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen. Chapter VI of the Act specifically deals with Lok Adalats.
- Option (A) and (B) are incorrect. The Legal Aid and Advice Act of 1949 is a UK legislation. The Legal Services Corporation Act of 1974 is a US legislation.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Lok Adalats owe their statutory origin to the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.