Lok Adalats as Catalysts for Change in the Indian Legal System

**1. Access to Justice:

• Lok Adalats provide an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, offering a platform for quick and cost-effective justice. For example, National Lok Adalat held in 2023 resolved over 2 lakh cases, enhancing access to justice for marginalized communities.

**2. Reduction in Case Backlog:

• Lok Adalats help alleviate the burden on courts by settling disputes outside the formal judicial system. The Delhi Lok Adalat in 2022 successfully disposed of thousands of pending cases, reducing the case backlog.

**3. Cost-Effectiveness:

• They offer a no-cost resolution, which is particularly beneficial for economically weaker sections. The Maharashtra Lok Adalat system has been praised for its affordability and efficiency.

**4. Promoting Settlement Culture:

• Lok Adalats foster a culture of amicable settlements and mutual agreement, as seen in the Family Dispute Resolution Lok Adalats which resolve matrimonial and family disputes with a focus on reconciliation.

**5. Increased Public Confidence:

• By providing speedy justice and reducing litigation costs, Lok Adalats enhance public confidence in the legal system, demonstrating their role in legal reforms and efficiency.