Indian Polity & Governance·Amendments

Lok Adalats — Amendments

Updated 5 Mar 2026
AmendmentYearDescriptionImpact
42nd Amendment1976Inserted Article 39A in the Constitution, establishing the state's obligation to provide free legal aid and ensure equal access to justice. This amendment laid the constitutional foundation for alternative dispute resolution mechanisms like Lok Adalats.Created constitutional mandate for accessible justice delivery, leading to comprehensive legal aid framework and alternative dispute resolution systems that serve millions of citizens annually.