SRINAGAR: The Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, inaugurated the First National Lok Adalat of 2024 in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.
Chief Justice, accompanied by Justice Javed Iqbal Wani, visited the District Court Complex Ganderbal to assess the progress of the Lok Adalat. During the inspection, the Chief Justice personally intervened in a couple of cases, facilitating amicable settlements between adamant parties.
An astounding 1,43,406 cases out of 1,52,551 were disposed of across 110 benches during the day-long National Lok Adalat. A total compensation, settlement amount of Rs 51,62,62,618/- was awarded in various cases including Motor Accident Claims, civil, criminal, labour disputes, and more.
Addressing judicial officers, lawyers, and litigants, the Chief Justice underscored the benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms. Justice Javed Iqbal Wani highlighted the rising concern of matrimonial disputes, urging parties to leverage Lok Adalats for cost-effective and swift resolutions, thus preventing family disintegration.
Simultaneously, at the District Court Complex Reasi, Justice Tashi Rabstan and Justice Mohd. Akram Chowdhary inaugurated the National Lok Adalat. They emphasised the pivotal role of stakeholders including judicial officers, advocates, insurance companies, and civil and police administration in the success of Lok Adalats.
During the proceedings, two matrimonial cases and one MACT case were settled on the spot due to the intervention of Justice Tashi and Justice Mohd. Akram Chowdhary. Moreover, Justice Tashi inaugurated a revamped Legal Aid Care & Support Centre at Pouni, Reasi.
Member Secretary of JK Legal Services Authority commended the collective efforts of judicial officers, advocates, staff, and litigants for their active participation. He also acknowledged the vital role of Para Legal Volunteers and the media in creating awareness about legal initiatives and welfare schemes.
The 2nd National Lok Adalat is scheduled to be held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, continuing the pursuit of justice and resolution in Jammu and Kashmir.
