Almora.
Under Section 22(B) of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, the state government has established a Permanent Lok Adalat in Almora, which will also cover Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts. Its core aim is embodied in the motto “Justice Made Easy, Immediate Resolution of Disputes,” ensuring quick, affordable, and accessible justice for the public, litigants, and advocates alike.
Key Benefits of the Permanent Lok Adalat
Any person can directly submit an application here before filing a formal case in court.
No court fee or legal charges are required.
Disputes are resolved in a shorter time frame.
It prevents bitterness or enmity often caused by lengthy litigation.
The decision of the Permanent Lok Adalat is final and binding, with no appeal possible in any other court.
Types of Cases Admissible
It deals with civil disputes and compoundable criminal cases related to public utility services, with a claim value of up to ₹1 crore, provided the matter is not already pending in another court. These include disputes related to:
Transport services (road, rail, air, water)
Postal and telecommunication services
Electricity, water supply, sanitation systems
Hospitals and healthcare services
Insurance services
Educational institutions
Housing and real estate services
Banking and financial services
Difference Between Consumer Forum and Permanent Lok Adalat
Consumer Forums handle only “deficiency in service” matters, and their orders can be appealed. In contrast, Permanent Lok Adalats handle not only service deficiency cases but also related claims, recovery matters, and compoundable criminal cases. Their awards are final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Difference Between Lok Adalat and Permanent Lok Adalat
Lok Adalats can settle cases only through mutual compromise, and if no settlement is reached, the case is returned. However, Permanent Lok Adalats have the authority to decide cases on merits, even if a settlement fails.
For More Information Contact
Chairperson, Permanent Lok Adalat, District Court Council, Almora
Members:
Kumari Abhilasha Tiwari
Bhaskar Chandra Pandey
Chairperson: Shri Shrikant Pandey, District & Sessions Judge
