The objectives of the Lok Adalat visit were:
- Exposure to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): To familiarize students with the Lok Adalat system as a cost-effective and efficient method for resolving disputes outside the traditional court system.
- Understanding Legal Procedures: To observe the procedural aspects of Lok Adalat, including case management, mediation, and settlement processes.
- Interaction with Legal Professionals: To engage with judges and legal practitioners to gain insights into the practical application of law.
- Awareness of Legal Aid Services: To understand the role of legal aid in providing access to justice for underprivileged sections of society.
Description of the Visit
On 13/09/2025 a group BA.LL.B. students from Subharti Institute of Law, accompanied by the Coordinator Law Club, Dr. Sarika Tyagi visited the District Court of Meerut to observe the proceedings of the National Lok Adalat. The visit was organized under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Vaibhav Goel Bhartiya, Dean, Faculty of Law, and the direction of Justice Rajesh Chandra, Director, Faculty of Law. The students were welcomed by Mr.Ramesh Kushwaha Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Meerut, who facilitated their interaction with Hon’ble District and Sessions Judge Sh. Sanjeev Pandey and other judicial officers. During the visit, students had the opportunity to observe various court proceedings, including family disputes, traffic violations, and civil matters. They were briefed on the functioning of Lok Adalat, its objectives, and the types of cases it handles. The students also participated in discussions with judges, where they posed questions related to legal procedures, the role of mediators, and the benefits of ADR mechanisms. The judges provided detailed explanations, enhancing the students’ understanding of the practical aspects of law.
Outcomes of the Visit
- Enhanced Practical Knowledge: Students gained first-hand experience of the Lok Adalat proceedings, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.
- Increased Awareness of ADR Mechanisms: The visit highlighted the importance of Lok Adalat in reducing the burden on regular courts and providing timely justice to litigants.
- Strengthened Legal Aid Understanding: Students learned about the role of legal aid in ensuring access to justice for marginalized communities.
- Improved Interaction Skills: Engaging with legal professionals enhanced students’ communication and interpersonal skills, essential for their future legal careers.
Conclusion- The visit to the National Lok Adalat provided Subharti Law College students with invaluable insights into the practical workings of the legal system, particularly the ADR mechanisms. Such initiatives play a crucial role in shaping well-rounded legal professionals equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.