UPSC Prelims 2016 Q40: Indian Polity – Judiciary
With reference to the 'Gram Nyayalaya Act', which of the following statements is/are
correct?
1. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases.
2. The Act allows local social activists as mediators/reconciliators.
Select the correct answer
using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation
Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008
The Act came into force on 2 October 2009.
It sets up village courts to give quick, cheap justice at the doorstep.
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases | Incorrect | They hear both civil and criminal cases listed in the Schedules |
| 2. The Act allows local social activists as mediators/reconciliators | Correct | The District Court keeps a panel of social workers as conciliators |
Key features:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Level | Intermediate Panchayat (block) |
| Presiding officer | Nyayadhikari, appointed by the State Government in consultation with the High Court |
| Mobile court | Can sit in the villages |
| Procedure | Guided by natural justice; not bound by the Evidence Act |
| Recommended by | Law Commission, 114th Report |
Answer: (b) 2 only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Gram Nyayalayas hear criminal cases too, so statement 1 is false.
- (b) CORRECT. The Act allows social workers to act as conciliators.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false; their jurisdiction is both civil and criminal.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 2 is true; conciliation through local persons is provided.
Key point
Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008: mobile village courts at block level; civil and criminal jurisdiction; Nyayadhikari; conciliators from local social workers.
Remember
Gram Nyayalaya = civil + criminal + conciliators.
Common mistakes
- Assuming village courts handle only civil disputes.
- Confusing Gram Nyayalayas with Nyaya Panchayats or Lok Adalats.
- Thinking the Nyayadhikari is elected; the State appoints after consulting the High Court.
Exam tip
Statements with 'only' need a second look. Gram Nyayalayas hear both kinds of cases.
Sources
- Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008
- Department of Justice — Gram Nyayalayas scheme