SRINAGAR, August 7, 2026 – In a significant move aimed at strengthening the justice delivery system and reducing the massive backlog of legal cases, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved the establishment of two Permanent Lok Adalats—one each in Jammu and Srinagar.
This marks the first time such permanent alternative dispute resolution courts will be set up in the Union Territory.
The proposal, which was cleared by the Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Department headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has now been forwarded to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for final approval.
According to official sources, the Permanent Lok Adalats will be constituted under Section 22-B of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. Their primary focus will be enabling a faster, affordable, and more accessible resolution of disputes, particularly those related to public utility services, through compromise and conciliation.
Here are the key takeaways regarding the new legal bodies:
- Headed by District Judges: The Permanent Lok Adalats will be presided over by District Judges. This will ensure an institutionalized mechanism for the speedy settlement of pre-litigation and pending disputes without the prolonged delays of traditional courts.
- Expansion of the Judiciary: In anticipation of these courts and to further address case pendency, the government has also approved the creation of 30 new posts for Additional Judges.
- A Phased Rollout: Following the implementation of the Central legislation, consultations were held with the High Court of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. While the High Court initially proposed setting up four Permanent Lok Adalats, the government has approved two in the first phase.
- From Periodic to Permanent: At present, Lok Adalats in J&K are conducted periodically at different locations. With this new initiative, the alternative dispute resolution mechanism will become a regular, permanent feature, significantly improving public access to swift justice.
Once Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha grants his clearance, the government will issue a formal notification, paving the way for the immediate operationalization of the courts.
Published by True Roots Media Network