Srinagar, Sept. 14 -- Dispute resolution in Jammu and Kashmir took a turn during the recent National Lok Adalat, where more than 23,000 cases were settled in a single day and settlements worth over Rs 176 crore were awarded. The scale of the exercise reflects the capacity of alternative forums to deliver outcomes that conventional litigation often struggles to provide.

Across 163 benches, disputes of varied nature were addressed; motor accident claims, family conflicts, cheque dishonour cases, labour matters, recovery suits, and compoundable criminal offences. The range of matters resolved shows that Lok Adalats are not confined to technical disputes but extend to issues that affect daily life, commerce and community relations.

Srinagar...