If you’ve received a traffic challan and are unsure how to deal with it legally, Lok Adalat might be your easiest and most cost-effective option. Known for offering quick resolutions to petty cases, Lok Adalats are now being used in many states to help citizens settle pending traffic challans without visiting a court. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about settling your challan through Lok Adalat in 2025.
What is Lok Adalat?
Lok Adalat, meaning “People’s Court,” is an alternative dispute resolution system in India, organized by Legal Services Authorities under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. These courts are recognized by law and are held regularly across the country to resolve small disputes, especially those related to traffic violations, unpaid fines, utility bills, and civil matters.
Key Features of Lok Adalat:
- Quick disposal of cases
- No court fees
- Mutual settlement
- Final and binding decisions
Types of Challans Handled in Lok Adalat
Lok Adalats primarily handle non-compoundable and petty offences. Here’s what types of traffic challans are generally accepted:
- Red light jumping
- Overspeeding
- Not wearing a helmet or seatbelt
- Driving without documents
- Minor parking violations
Note: Serious offences like drunk driving or accidents involving injury are usually not accepted in Lok Adalats.
Why Choose Lok Adalat for Challans?
Using Lok Adalat to settle your challan offers multiple advantages:
- Reduced Penalties: In many cases, fines are discounted or waived.
- No Legal Hassle: Avoid lengthy court procedures.
- Immediate Closure: Once the challan is resolved, the case is considered closed.
- No Lawyers Required: You can represent yourself.
How to Know if Your Challan is Eligible for Lok Adalat
Most traffic departments and legal services authorities release lists of eligible challans ahead of Lok Adalat sessions.
You can check:
- On your state’s Traffic Police website
- Through SMS or letters sent by the authority
- Or use our Challan Checker Tool below 👇
🛠️ Check Your Challan Now
How to Settle a Challan via Lok Adalat – Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps:
- Check Challan Status
Use echallan.parivahan.gov.in to verify your challan. - Confirm Lok Adalat Eligibility
Look for notifications on your traffic department’s or state legal services website. - Visit the Lok Adalat
Go to the scheduled Lok Adalat session (in person or virtual if available). - Present Your Case
Carry your challan copy and valid ID. No lawyer is needed. - Pay the Fine
Make the payment as instructed — usually discounted. - Collect Settlement Receipt
Once paid, your case is marked as resolved.
Lok Adalat 2025 Dates and Notifications
National Lok Adalat 2025 (Tentative Dates)
National Lok Adalats are held four times a year — typically in March, June, September, and December. States may also conduct additional state-level Lok Adalats more frequently.
| Event | Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| 1st Lok Adalat | March 10, 2025 |
| 2nd Lok Adalat | May 10, 2025 |
| 3rd Lok Adalat | September 13, 2025 |
| 4th Lok Adalat | December 13, 2025 |
Tip: Bookmark OnlineChallanChecker.com to get updated Lok Adalat alerts.
Settle Traffic Challans & Disputes in Lok Adalat on May 10, 2025
Got a pending traffic challan or legal dispute? The National Lok Adalat is being held across India on May 10, 2025. Citizens can resolve issues like:
- Traffic challans (including drink & drive cases)
- Property and family disputes (except divorce)
- Motor accident claims, money recovery, utility bill cases, and more
No long trials — just quick, mutual settlements with legal validity.
The last Lok Adalat on March 8 settled over 1.57 crore cases, worth ₹5,473 crore in one day!
Contact your local Legal Services Authority to participate.
States Where You Can Settle Challans via Lok Adalat
Some states are more proactive in using Lok Adalat for traffic challans. These include:
- Delhi
- Uttar Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Punjab
- Haryana
- Rajasthan
- Madhya Pradesh
- Tamil Nadu
Each state has its own procedure and online portals. Visit your State Legal Services Authority (SLSA) or Traffic Police Website for details.
Important Tips Before Attending Lok Adalat
- Carry your challan printout and valid ID proof
- Be respectful and cooperative during proceedings
- Don’t miss the notified date; failure to attend may lead to stricter penalties
Can I settle my challan online via Lok Adalat?
Some states offer virtual Lok Adalat options. Check with your state traffic website.
Is the Lok Adalat’s decision final?
Yes, the decision is binding and cannot be appealed in regular courts.
What happens if I miss my Lok Adalat date?
You might have to wait for the next session or pay the full fine amount later.
Can I attend Lok Adalat without a lawyer?
Absolutely. The process is simple, and legal representation is not mandatory.
Is the decision of Lok Adalat legally binding?
Yes. Once a settlement is reached, it is final and cannot be appealed in any court.
Is participation in Lok Adalat compulsory?
No. It is a voluntary process. Both parties must agree to settle the matter.
Can Lok Adalat reduce or cancel my challan?
Yes, in many cases Lok Adalats can waive or reduce fines based on the nature of the offense.
Are Lok Adalats free of cost?
Yes. Lok Adalats charge no fees, and if a case is settled, any court fee paid is refunded.