Question

Which is not true in respect of Lok Adalat?

• A. There is no fee payable when a matter is filed in a Lok Adalat.
• B. The persons deciding the cases in Lok Adalats have no judicial role.
• C. Any civil case pending before any court can be referred to Lok Adalat
• D. Members of Lok Adalats can pressurize any of the parties for compromise

Hint:

Lok Adalats promote voluntary, fee-free dispute resolution through conciliation without judicial compulsion.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Nature of Lok Adalat: Lok Adalats are alternative dispute resolution forums which provide an informal and amicable method of settling disputes.
Step 2: No Fees: There is no court fee payable in Lok Adalat, and if the matter is resolved there, any fees paid in the regular courts are refunded.
Step 3: Role of Members: The persons deciding cases in Lok Adalat act as conciliators or mediators, not as judges; they facilitate mutual agreement but do not impose decisions.
Step 4: Voluntary Settlement: Pressurizing or coercing parties for compromise is strictly against the principles of Lok Adalat. All settlements are voluntary and mutually agreed upon.
Step 5: Jurisdiction: Any pending civil case or compoundable criminal case can be referred to Lok Adalat for settlement.
Therefore, the statement that members can pressurize parties is not true.