Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals are alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in India, but they differ in structure, procedure, and scope.
Lok Adalats:
- Nature: Lok Adalats are informal community-based forums established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. They aim to provide speedy justice and amicable settlement of disputes.
- Scope: They primarily handle civil cases, including family disputes, property issues, and motor vehicle claims. They do not entertain criminal cases unless they are compoundable offenses.
- Process: The process is voluntary, and decisions are made through mutual consent, ensuring a non-adversarial environment.
Arbitration Tribunals:
- Nature: Arbitration is a formal process where disputes are resolved by an arbitrator or a panel, based on the agreement between parties.
- Scope: Arbitration can address both civil and commercial disputes, including complex contractual issues. It is not typically used for criminal cases.
- Process: The procedure is more structured, with rules governing arbitration proceedings, and the arbitrator’s decision is binding.
In summary, Lok Adalats focus on amicable resolution primarily for civil cases, while Arbitration Tribunals provide a formal framework for resolving both civil and commercial disputes.
