APRIL 28: In an effort to facilitate the amicable resolution of consumer disputes, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Budgam organized a Special Lok Adalat focused on consumer-related cases. The event was conducted under the guidance of O.P. Bhagat, Chairman of DLSA Budgam, and was supervised by Nusrat Ali Hakak.
As part of the initiative, two Special Lok Adalat benches were constituted at the District headquarters in Budgam. The benches were tasked with taking up consumer matters for settlement in a swift and conciliatory manner. A total of 65 consumer cases were listed for hearing during the Lok Adalat.
Out of the 65 cases taken up, 19 matters were amicably resolved to the satisfaction of the concerned parties. The successful settlements not only brought timely justice to the consumers but also helped reduce the burden on regular courts by encouraging out-of-court agreements.
Moreover, the Special Lok Adalat led to the realization of a total settlement amount of ₹1,64,512. The prompt resolution of disputes and financial settlements reflects the effectiveness of the Lok Adalat mechanism in providing accessible and efficient legal remedies to the public.
The DLSA Budgam emphasized that the objective of organizing such special sessions is to promote alternative dispute resolution methods, ensuring that justice is delivered in a time-bound and cost-effective manner. Lok Adalats provide a platform where disputes are settled amicably without lengthy litigation processes, benefiting both consumers and service providers.
Officials present at the Lok Adalat reiterated the importance of consumer rights and the role of mediation and conciliation in resolving conflicts. They also encouraged citizens to utilize Lok Adalats for settling disputes to avoid prolonged court battles and to foster mutual understanding.
The successful organization of the Special Lok Adalat in Budgam highlights the commitment of the DLSA towards strengthening the legal services framework and enhancing public trust in the justice delivery system.
The District Legal Services Authority plans to continue holding such Lok Adalats regularly, with the aim of ensuring wider access to justice for all sections of society, especially for cases involving consumer grievances.