With reference to Gram Nyayalayas, who presides over the Gram Nyayalayas and what is their official designation?

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (b) A judicial officer designated as Nyaya Adhikari, appointed by the State Government in consultation with the High Court

Explanation:

• Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008 provides for setting up village-level courts to ensure speedy and affordable justice.
• Each Gram Nyayalaya is presided over by a Nyaya Adhikari, who is a Judicial Officer.
• The State Government appoints the Nyaya Adhikari in consultation with the High Court, ensuring judicial independence.

Information Booster:

• Gram Nyayalayas have both civil and criminal jurisdiction for minor disputes.
• The court follows simple procedures, often using conciliation to settle disputes.
• They are mobile courts, holding sittings at village or panchayat levels to improve access.
• The Act aims to reduce the burden on regular courts by resolving local disputes quickly.
• Cases are handled using summary procedures for faster disposal.

Additional Knowledge:

• Established under the broader goal of access to justice at the grassroots level.
• States like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha have implemented a higher number of Gram Nyayalayas.
• Nyaya Panchayats (Option d) existed earlier but are not the same as Gram Nyayalayas under the 2008 Act.
• Magistrates (Option a) and Panchayat Samiti representatives (Option c) have no role in presiding over these courts.