The Lok Adalat organised at the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) in Jaipur on Friday witnessed massive overcrowding and chaotic arrangements as more than 2,000 litigants, advocates, recovery agents, and bank officials gathered to settle pending loan recovery disputes.
Despite the logistical challenges and congestion, around 450 cases were amicably resolved during the proceedings, including one of the biggest settlements of the day involving the Bank of Maharashtra. Officials stated that a major recovery dispute of approximately ₹3.14 crore involving the Bank of Maharashtra was settled for nearly ₹2.50 crore through mutual consent between the parties during the Lok Adalat.
Overwhelming Turnout and Venue Challenges
The unprecedented turnout led to severe crowding both inside and outside the tribunal premises situated at Lal Kothi, prompting demands from participants and officials alike to shift future Lok Adalats to a larger venue with better infrastructure and parking facilities.
“Very poor arrangement. They should have had a more spacious venue,” said Gurbachan Singh, a litigant from Sriganganagar, expressing the frustration shared by many attendees.
Infrastructure and Logistical Issues
Participants complained of inadequate seating arrangements and cramped waiting areas, making movement difficult within the tribunal complex. The parking chaos in the surrounding locality further worsened the situation, with vehicles lined up along nearby roads, leading to traffic congestion for several hours. Heated verbal exchanges were reported at certain counters as litigants and representatives struggled to access settlement desks and documentation facilities amid the heavy rush.
Positive Outcome Amidst Chaos
DRT presiding officer Vimal Gupta acknowledged the challenges but highlighted the positive outcome. “The response of the litigants was very good. Looking at the participation, in future we may look for some other area with better facilities to organise such programmes,” Gupta said.
The successful resolution of 450 cases, including the substantial Bank of Maharashtra settlement, underscores the growing trust in Lok Adalats as an effective mechanism for dispute resolution, even as the need for improved logistical arrangements becomes evident.
