'Very Serious Issue': Rajasthan High Court Takes Suo-Motu Cognizance Of News Report On 16 Non-Functioning Lok Adalats

The division bench of Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Sandeep Shah in its order states that the report indicates that around 972 cases were pending at Jodhpur, and there was a high probability that there may be about 10,000 cases pending settlement through the permanent Lok Adalats.

The bench referred to Supreme Court's decision in Brij Mohan Lal v Union of India & Ors. (2012) which stressed upon the importance of public's right to demand speedy justice, and also ruled on the jurisdiction of the Constitution Courts to interfere with the policy decision of the State.

“The Hon'ble Supreme Court held that it would fail in its duty if it declines to exercise its jurisdiction in such class of cases where a demand for speedy and fair trial is involved solely on the ground that it was a policy decision and, therefore, beyond the limits of the judicial review,” the bench said. 

In this background, the Court made the following parties as respondents to the case, directing a reply to be submitted by May 15.

1. State of Rajasthan
2. Additional Chief Secretary-cum-Finance Secretary
3. Secretary to Government
4. Principal Secretary, Law & Legal Affairs Department
5. Member Secretary, Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority

Accordingly, the court issued notice to the State government and authorities and listed the matter on May 15.

Title: Suo Moto v State of Rajasthan & Ors.