Major initiative aims at speedy disposal of pending matters through mutual consent; litigants can join proceedings virtually from home
TFP Bureau, Raipur, May 8, 2026: In a significant move to promote accessible, affordable, and expeditious justice, the Supreme Court of India has announced the launch of the National Lok Adalat on May 9, 2026, under a special initiative titled ‘Samadhan Samaroh’ (Resolution Ceremony). The initiative is aimed at resolving long-pending disputes through dialogue and mutual consent, thereby reducing the burden on courts and ensuring quicker relief to litigants.
The National Lok Adalat will mark the formal commencement of this nationwide settlement drive, which will continue through a series of large-scale Special Lok Adalat events culminating in August 2026. The programme underscores the judiciary’s continued emphasis on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms and people-friendly judicial processes.
Key Dates and Schedule
According to the official schedule, the National Lok Adalat will be inaugurated on May 9, 2026. A Special Lok Adalat session, to be held within the Supreme Court premises in New Delhi, is scheduled for August 21, 22, and 23, 2026.
Preparatory steps for the initiative are already underway. The process of pre-litigation conciliation talks commenced on April 21, 2026, enabling disputing parties to explore the possibility of amicable settlement even before formal hearings. These pre-litigation discussions are being facilitated by trained mediators and officials to encourage constructive dialogue and voluntary resolution.
Emphasis on Mutual Consent and Speedy Justice
The primary objective of the Lok Adalat is to dispose of cases through mutual agreement between the parties, avoiding prolonged litigation and adversarial courtroom proceedings. Cases that are suitable for settlement—such as civil disputes, matrimonial matters, motor accident claims, cheque bounce cases, and other compoundable matters—are expected to be taken up during the proceedings.
Judicial authorities have emphasized that settlements reached in Lok Adalats carry the same legal validity as court decrees and are binding on the parties. Importantly, no appeal lies against the award passed in a Lok Adalat, as it is based on voluntary agreement between the parties.
Virtual Participation Facility
A notable feature of this year’s initiative is the provision for virtual participation. Litigants need not be physically present at the court premises; they may join the proceedings online from their homes or workplaces. This hybrid model is intended to make the justice delivery system more inclusive and convenient, particularly for senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and parties residing in distant locations.
Officials from the Legal Services Authority will assist participants in navigating the virtual process, ensuring that technological barriers do not hinder access to justice. Dedicated help centers have also been established to address queries and provide technical support.
Registration and Application Process
Litigants who wish to have their pending cases included in the Special Lok Adalat must complete a registration process through a Google Form made available on the official website of the Supreme Court of India. The last date for submitting applications is May 31, 2026.
Applicants are advised to ensure that all relevant case details are accurately filled in while submitting the form. Upon verification, eligible cases will be listed for consideration in the Lok Adalat sessions.
Help Centers and Contact Details
To facilitate smooth coordination and assistance, dedicated contact centers have been set up:
Supreme Court (One-Stop Center/War Room):
Contact Numbers: 011-23115652, 011-23116464
Email: speciallokadalat2026@sci.in
Address: Room Nos. 806 & 808, ‘B’ Block, Additional Building Complex, Supreme Court of India, New Delhi.
District Legal Services Authority, Raipur:
Address: District Court Complex, Raipur
Contact Numbers: 0771-2425944, 91-8301508992
Authorities have urged advocates, litigants, and stakeholders to actively participate in this settlement drive. The initiative is being described as a golden opportunity for parties to resolve their disputes amicably, save time and litigation costs, and restore harmony without bitterness.
With the launch of ‘Samadhan Samaroh,’ the Supreme Court aims to reinforce public faith in the justice system by making dispute resolution faster, simpler, and more citizen-centric.
