 Early Time Report
JAMMU, Dec 14:With the aim of resolving and providing quick, affordable as well as hassle free resolution of disputes as mandated under Constitution of India, the 4th and final National Lok Adalat of the calendar year 2024 was held today throughout the U.T of J&K under the patronage of Justice Tashi Rabstan, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority) and dynamic mentorship of Justice Atul Sreedharan, Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authorityasalso under the able guidance of Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Chairperson, High Court Legal Services Committee.
The Chief Justice, accompanied by Shahzad Azeem, Registrar General, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, and Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, inaugurated the National Lok Adalat at the District Court Complex, Poonch.
Upon his arrival, the Chief Justice was warmly welcomed by Ashwani Sharma, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Poonch; Ahsan Ullah Parvez Malik, Additional District Judge, Poonch; Vikas Kundal, Deputy Commissioner, Poonch; Shafaqat, Senior Superintendent of Police, Poonch; and Sarfaraz Nawaz, Chief Judicial Magistrate, Poonch.
In a gesture of appreciation, the President of the Bar Association, Poonch, along with Bar members, felicitated the Chief Justice, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to justice delivery and his exemplary leadership in advancing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. A ceremonial guard of honour was also accorded to the Chief Justice, marking the occasion with grandeur and respect.
During the Lok Adalat, Chief Justice inspected different benches and interacted with the Presiding officers, members of the benches, Advocates and litigants. While addressing a gathering, Justice Tashi Rabstan underscored the pivotal role of mediation and ADR mechanisms in the justice delivery system, highlighting their cost-effectiveness and ability to preserve relationships.
Emphasizing the importance of deciding the matters of family disputes at the earliest, especially those of custody, he stated, “Child custody cases require utmost priority as they affect innocent children who have no role in the litigation.
With collective efforts of counsels and presiding officers, these disputes can be settled amicably, ensuring justice and a better future for the child.” He further urged judicial officers to explore possibilities of dispute resolution at the pre-litigation stage to minimize delays.
As part of the event, various departments, including horticulture, agriculture, health, and social welfare, set up awareness stalls to educate and assist the public. |
