Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction
   • Briefly introduce the Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008.
   • State its purpose of enhancing access to justice at the grassroots level.
2. Key Features of the Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008
   • Establishment of Courts: Explain how Gram Nyayalayas are set up for every intermediate Panchayat or contiguous Panchayats in a district (Source: Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008).
   • Judicial Authority: Describe the role of the presiding officer (Nyayadhikari) and their appointment process (Source: Act provisions).
   • Mobile Court System: Discuss the mobile nature of these courts, operating within villages to deliver justice (Source: Act details).
   • Jurisdiction: Outline the types of cases they handle (criminal and civil) as specified in the Act (Source: First and Second Schedules).
   • Procedural Flexibility: Mention the deviation from traditional evidence rules, emphasizing natural justice (Source: Act provisions).
3. Importance of Gram Nyayalayas for India
   • Access to Justice: Highlight how the Act aligns with Article 39A of the Constitution, promoting equal access to legal resources (Source: Constitution of India).
   • Simplification of Legal Procedures: Discuss the government’s initiatives to streamline judicial processes, including alternative dispute resolution mechanisms (Source: Government initiatives).
   • Speedy Justice: Reference the recommendations of the Law Commission that advocated for the establishment of these courts for efficient justice delivery (Source: 114th Law Commission Report).
   • Affordable Justice: Emphasize the Act’s role in providing justice to rural populations at their doorstep, fulfilling the aspirations of disadvantaged communities (Source: Community feedback).
4. Conclusion
   • Summarize the significance of the Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008 in improving access to justice and promoting social equity in India.

Relevant Facts for the Answer

1. Establishment of Gram Nyayalayas: Set up for every intermediate-level Panchayat or a group of contiguous Panchayats (Source: Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008).
2. Judicial Authority: Presiding officers are appointed by the state government in consultation with the High Court (Source: Act provisions).
3. Mobile Courts: Gram Nyayalayas operate in villages, ensuring justice is accessible (Source: Act details).
4. Jurisdiction: Handle specified criminal and civil matters as outlined in the First and Second Schedules of the Act (Source: Act specifications).
5. Procedural Flexibility: Not strictly bound by the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, focusing on principles of natural justice (Source: Act provisions).
6. Constitutional Mandate: Supports Article 39A, which ensures justice is accessible and free for all (Source: Constitution of India).
7. Law Commission Recommendations: 114th Report emphasized the need for Gram Nyayalayas to provide speedy and affordable justice (Source: 114th Law Commission Report).

By following this roadmap and utilizing these facts, you can create a comprehensive and informed response to the question.