The Jammu and Kashmir Legal Services Authority organized the first National Lok Adalat of 2026 across the Union Territory to promote the quick and amicable resolution of disputes.
Held under the patronage of Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Justice Arun Palli, the Lok Adalat was conducted under the leadership of Executive Chairman Justice Sanjeev Kumar and the guidance of Justice Sanjay Dhar.
According to official figures, a total of 76,707 cases were taken up by 194 benches during the day-long proceedings, of which 67,993 cases were settled amicably. Compensation and settlement amounts exceeding ₹55.86 crore were awarded in matters related to motor accident claims, civil and criminal disputes, labor issues, electricity and water bills, land acquisition, family disputes, cheque dishonor, and bank recovery cases.
To ensure maximum participation, pre-Lok Adalat sittings and counseling sessions were conducted across districts in advance. Awareness programs were also organized to educate litigants about the benefits of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Justice Sanjeev Kumar inaugurated the Lok Adalat at the District Court Complex, Jammu, and inspected various benches, interacting with judicial officers, advocates, and litigants. Several disputes were settled on the spot, and compensation checks in motor accident claim cases were distributed to beneficiaries.
He praised the efforts of judicial officers, legal aid defense counsels, para legal volunteers, and other stakeholders for the successful conduct of the event, stating that Lok Adalats play a vital role in reducing pendency and ensuring cost-effective justice.
Member Secretary Shazia Tabassum said that the second National Lok Adalat of the year will be held on May 9, offering another opportunity for litigants to resolve disputes amicably.