Outlook Business Desk
Vehicle owners throughout India will have the opportunity to clear their traffic fines during the National Lok Adalat on 13 September 2025. This scheme lets individuals either pay reduced penalties or, in certain cases, have minor offences completely waived, helping reduce pending cases.
The Lok Adalat primarily addresses minor traffic violations. Offences that can be waived or reduced include riding without a helmet, not wearing a seat belt, exceeding speed limits, jumping red lights, incorrect parking, lacking a valid Pollution Under Control certificate, and similar minor infractions.
Additional minor traffic issues covered include driving without a licence, no vehicle fitness certificate, ignoring traffic signs, using the wrong lane, wrongfully issued challans, or missing number plates. These cases can be settled fully or partially under the special Lok Adalat.
The Lok Adalat does not cover serious traffic offences. Cases such as drunk driving, hit-and-run, fatalities caused by negligent driving, vehicles involved in criminal acts, unauthorised racing, driving by underage individuals, or challans already pending in court or from other states are excluded from waiver.
Vehicle owners wishing to participate must first complete online registration. Once submitted, they will receive a token number and an appointment letter with the allotted date and time. On the day, attendees should carry all necessary documents and arrive at least one hour in advance.
Applicants can register online through the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) website. They need to complete the form, upload the required documents, and submit it. After submission, a token number is sent via email or phone, which is necessary to attend the Lok Adalat hearing.
On the day of the Lok Adalat, cases will be called according to the assigned token numbers. Participants should carry original vehicle documents, challan information, and all necessary papers. Certain centres may also allow walk-in settlements, depending on announcements from local courts or authorities.
Apart from traffic challans, the Lok Adalat will also take up civil disputes such as property conflicts, family-related issues, and minor pending cases. Judges examine both parties arguments and deliver an immediate order under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.