The Lok Adalat plays a significant role in resolving medical negligence cases in India by offering a speedy, low-cost, and amicable alternative to traditional litigation. It functions under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and is recognized as a statutory forum for dispute resolution. Here’s the detailed role of Lok Adalat in such cases: 1. Nature of Lok Adalat – Lok Adalat (People’s Court) is a non-adversarial forum that encourages compromise or settlement between parties. – It handles cases pending in court or pre-litigation matters where both parties are willing to settle. 2. Medical Negligence and Lok Adalat – Medical negligence cases, which often involve compensation claims, can be referred to Lok Adalat, but only if both the patient and the doctor/hospital agree. – These cases are often complex, but if the facts are not heavily disputed, and compensation can be reasonably discussed, Lok Adalats provide a useful platform for resolution. 3. Advantages in Medical Negligence Cases Speedy Resolution: Cases are settled in a single day or session. No Court Fee: There is no fee for lodging or resolving a case in Lok Adalat. Final and Binding: The award passed is binding, has the status of a civil court decree, and is enforceable by law. No Appeal: The decision cannot be appealed, ensuring finality. Confidential and Less Stressful: Proceedings are informal, promoting open dialogue and avoiding the pressure of a courtroom. 4. Types of Lok Adalat Forums That May Handle Such Cases – Permanent Lok Adalat (PLA) for public utility services like government hospitals – National Lok Adalat organized periodically at all levels – District or State Lok Adalats for general dispute resolution --- 5. Limitations – Both parties must consent to settle. – Cannot decide cases where parties are not ready to compromise. – Not suited for serious or highly contested claims requiring expert testimony or legal interpretation. – Cannot impose a solution; it can only facilitate a mutual agreement. 6. Procedure – The case can be referred by a court, or the parties can apply voluntarily to the Legal Services Authority. – A panel of judges, doctors, or legal professionals assist in settlement. – Once both sides agree on a solution, the Lok Adalat passes an award. In summary: Lok Adalat offers an efficient and people-friendly way to resolve medical negligence disputes, especially when parties seek a quick, mutually agreeable compensation. It avoids long trials, reduces costs, and promotes harmonious resolution, but is effective only when both sides agree to settle.

Dear Client, Established by the Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987 Lok Adalats are essential in settling cases involving medical negligence and other conflicts. In lieu of drawn-out litigation they offer an informal forum where parties can come to an agreement. Compensation claims pertaining to medical negligence can be resolved amicably in a Lok Adalat if the patient and the hospital or physician agree. A Lok Adalats decision has the same legal force and effect as a civil court ruling. This system encourages prompt relief, saves time and lowers legal expenses. I hope this answer helps. In case of future queries, please feel free to contact us. Thank you.