Supreme Court Advocates for Gram Nyayalayas to Enhance Access to Justice

The Supreme Court supports the establishment of Gram Nyayalayas to improve access to justice across India. An act from 2008 mandates these local courts to provide justice at citizens' doorsteps. The court directed states and the Centre to expedite the setup, given that only a few Nyayalayas have been established.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday emphasized the importance of establishing Gram Nyayalayas nationwide to improve access to justice.

The 2008 Act mandates the formation of these local courts for ensuring justice is accessible at the grassroots level. A bench led by Justice B R Gavai is examining a plea urging the Centre and states to expedite this process.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan highlighted that a mere five to six percent of Gram Nyayalayas have been set up to date, with some states citing existing Nyaya Panchayats as reasons for non-compliance. However, Nyaya Panchayats lack judicial officers, distinguishing them from Gram Nyayalayas.

The apex court appointed a senior advocate as amicus curiae to assist in the matter and urged states to file their responses promptly. It emphasized that timely establishment of Gram Nyayalayas is crucial for accessible justice and reducing the pendency in trial courts.

(With inputs from agencies.)