Nyaya Panchayats

Although in the Constitution dispensation of justice is inherent in the primary function of panchayats, the issue has so far not been addressed with the clarity and focus that it deserved. Against the backdrop of the recent announcement of the union law minister regarding the establishment of gram nyalayas, this article emphasises the need to revitalise the nyaya panchayats in furtherance of the directive principles of the Constitution. This is also necessary for ensuring a participatory and people-oriented system of justice and for providing greater scope to mediation and mitigating the hardship of the poor.