Punjab Special Lok Adalat settles 4,871 cheque bounce cases, awards over Rs 130.89 crore
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 18, 2026: The Punjab State Legal Services Authority (PSLSA) on Saturday organised a Special Lok Adalat across the state for cases related to Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments (NI) Act, 1881, leading to the settlement of 4,871 cases and awards worth over Rs 130.89 crore.
The Special Lok Adalat was held under the patronage of Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra, Acting Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and Executive Chairman of the Punjab State Legal Services Authority.
A total of 175 Lok Adalat benches were constituted across Punjab's districts and sub-divisions. Of the 17,723 cases taken up during the drive, 4,871 were amicably resolved, with awards amounting to Rs 130,89,99,050 being passed.
The initiative enabled thousands of litigants to resolve disputes related to cheque dishonour cases quickly, including several matters that had been pending for a long time, thereby reducing the burden on courts.
Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra appreciated the efforts of judicial officers, District Legal Services Authorities, panel lawyers and volunteers whose coordinated efforts ensured the successful conduct of the statewide event.
The Punjab State Legal Services Authority also thanked the Punjab and Haryana High Court, District Legal Services Authorities, the judiciary, members of the Bar, police authorities and the civil administration for their support in making the Special Lok Adalat a success.