Patna: A National Lok Adalat is being held on Friday at the Patna civil court complex under the directives of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and the Bihar State Legal Services Authority, with authorities expecting thousands of disputes to be settled through mutual agreement.
The event, which began with the inauguration by Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo of the Patna High Court, has been organised across two venues with a total of 49 benches to expedite case disposal.
According to Jyoti Chandan, secretary of the District Legal Services Authority, 25 benches have been set up at Gyan Bhawan near Gandhi Maidan exclusively to handle traffic challan-related cases. The remaining 24 benches are functioning within the civil court premises, dealing with a wider range of matters.
Notices had been issued in advance to parties involved in cases identified as suitable for settlement, enabling resolution through compromise during the Lok Adalat proceedings.
Authorities have made arrangements at both locations to manage the expected footfall, including medical teams, ambulances, drinking water facilities, and fire safety measures.
The Lok Adalat is handling disputes across several categories, including bank loan recovery, insurance claims, electricity bill disputes, and civil and family matters. Compoundable criminal cases are also being taken up where both parties consent to settlement.
Officials said resolutions reached through Lok Adalat carry the status of a court decree and are intended to provide a quicker, low-cost alternative to regular litigation, often resulting in what legal services authorities describe as a “win-win” outcome for both sides.
