Khunti workshop highlights how Permanent Lok Adalat offers fast, cost-free dispute resolution
Khunti, June 23: A workshop organised by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Khunti, on Tuesday highlighted the role of the Permanent…
Khunti, June 23: A workshop organised by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Khunti, on Tuesday highlighted the role of the Permanent Lok Adalat in providing fast, cost-free and final resolution of disputes related to public utility services, while also creating awareness about its statutory powers and procedures.
The workshop on the Statutory Procedure, Conciliatory Mandate and Adjudicatory Powers of the Permanent Lok Adalat was held at the Conference Hall of DLSA, Khunti, in compliance with the directions of the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA), Ranchi. The programme was conducted under the guidance of Rasikesh Kumar, Principal District and Sessions Judge-cum-Chairman, DLSA, Khunti.
Stakeholders and Legal Experts Participate
Kaushlesh Kumar Singh, Chairman of the Permanent Lok Adalat, Khunti, attended the programme as the chief guest. Members of the Permanent Lok Adalat, Madhu Chanda Kumar Rajak and Ruby Kumari, were also present.
The event was attended by Ajit Kumar, Lead District Manager (LDM), Khunti, Rajeev Kamal, Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel (LADC), panel lawyers, Para-Legal Volunteers (PLVs) and representatives of various public utility service departments, including banks, insurance companies, BSNL, the District Transport Office and the Electricity Department.
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Permanent Lok Adalat Procedure Explained
Addressing the gathering, Kaushlesh Kumar Singh explained the procedure followed by the Permanent Lok Adalat in disposing of pre-litigation disputes relating to public utility services under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
He outlined the provisions governing the functioning of Permanent Lok Adalats and emphasised their role in resolving disputes before they reach the courts.
The members of the Permanent Lok Adalat also spoke about challenges faced in securing the appearance of parties during proceedings and urged stakeholders to participate actively and in good faith to facilitate amicable settlements.
Difference Between Regular and Permanent Lok Adalats Highlighted
Kamlesh Behra, Civil Judge (Senior Division)-cum-Secretary, DLSA, Khunti, explained the statutory framework, conciliatory mandate and adjudicatory powers of the Permanent Lok Adalat. He encouraged citizens to make use of the institution for resolving disputes related to public utility services without paying court fees.
He also highlighted the distinction between a Regular Lok Adalat and a Permanent Lok Adalat. While a Regular Lok Adalat functions only as a conciliatory forum, a Permanent Lok Adalat has the authority to decide disputes on merits if conciliation efforts fail.
Behra further informed participants that awards passed by the Permanent Lok Adalat, whether through settlement or adjudication, are final and binding on all parties and are not subject to appeal under existing laws.
He also explained provisions relating to ex parte proceedings in cases where respondents repeatedly fail to appear despite receiving due notice.
Banking Sector Assures Cooperation
During the programme, Ajit Kumar, Lead District Manager, briefed participants on Non-Performing Asset (NPA) accounts, banking procedures related to such cases and the limitation period for initiating legal proceedings.
He assured full cooperation from the banking sector in ensuring the speedy disposal of matters pending before the Permanent Lok Adalat.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Rajeev Kamal, Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, Khunti.
The workshop concluded with a collective resolve among stakeholders to promote greater use of the Permanent Lok Adalat for the speedy, cost-free and final resolution of disputes relating to public utility services in the district.
