Nyaya Panchayats, also known as Gram Nyayalayas, are local level judicial institutions in India that provide justice at the grassroots level. Here is the composition and jurisdiction of Nyaya Panchayats:
Composition
Nyaya Panchayats are headed by a judicial officer known as the Nyaya Panchayat Judge. The judge is appointed by the state government in consultation with the high court. The judge should have a law degree or a minimum of seven years of experience as a judicial officer. The Nyaya Panchayat Judge is assisted by two other members, one of whom is a woman.
Jurisdiction
Nyaya Panchayats have jurisdiction over a specific area or a group of villages. They have the power to try civil and criminal cases, including cases related to property disputes, matrimonial disputes, and offenses punishable with imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or with a fine not exceeding Rs. 10,000.
Nyaya Panchayats follow a Simple and Informal Procedure for the Disposal of Cases:
- The proceedings are conducted in the local language, and the parties are not required to be represented by lawyers.
- The Nyaya Panchayat Judge tries to settle disputes amicably through mediation and conciliation.
- In case a settlement is not reached, the Nyaya Panchayat Judge pronounces a judgment, which is final and binding on the parties. However, if any party is not satisfied with the judgment, they can appeal to the court of the district judge within 30 days from the date of the judgment.
