The first National Lok Adalat of 2025 was successfully conducted across the Union Territory of Ladakh on March 8, with 11 benches taking up 724 cases. A total of 532 cases were amicably settled, resulting in a settlement amount of ₹1,53,52,431 paid as compensation in cases related to motor accident claims, civil disputes, criminal matters, labour disputes, electricity and land acquisition cases, family matters, cheque dishonor cases, and bank recoveries.

The Ladakh Legal Services Authority organized the Lok Adalat under the distinguished leadership of Justice Tashi Rabstan, Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief), Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Chairman of Ladakh Legal Services Authority, and under the guidance of Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Chairman of the High Court Legal Services Committee & Administrative Judge of District Leh.

The initiative aimed to encourage peaceful settlements in disputes at both the pre-institution stage and those already pending before courts and tribunals.

The cases included, motor accident claims, matrimonial issues, cheque bounce cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act, money recovery, and compoundable criminal cases, reinforcing the moto of providing easy accessible justice for all.

By promoting accessible and affordable justice, the Lok Adalat reinforced its mission of providing quick and efficient dispute resolution outside conventional litigation.

To ensure maximum dispute resolution, Pre-Lok Adalat sittings and pre-counseling sessions were held in advance, allowing parties ample time for discussions and mutual agreements. Additionally, virtual meetings were conducted to sensitize stakeholders, legal officers, LADCs, panel lawyers, and paralegal volunteers on the importance of Lok Adalats in strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.

Manoj Parihar, Member Secretary, Ladakh Legal Services Authority, appreciated the efforts of, Judicial officers, Secretaries of DLSAs, Advocates, and court staff, Legal Services Institutions, panel lawyers, and paralegal volunteers and Litigants who actively participated in the Lok Adalat

He emphasized that the high participation and successful dispute resolution demonstrate the public’s growing trust in ADR mechanisms, which offer faster and cost-effective alternatives to litigation.

The success of this National Lok Adalat reaffirms the Ladakh Legal Services Authority's commitment to ensuring that justice remains accessible, timely, and amicable for all citizens of the Union Territory.