Permanent Lok Adalat for Public Utility Disputes in Asansol

The Permanent Lok Adalat under the Legal Services Authorities Act 1987 handles disputes with public utility services — electricity, water, sanitation, telephone and internet, insurance and transport. It first attempts settlement and, if that fails, decides the case itself up to the prescribed value. There is no court fee and no lawyer is required.

Key facts at a glance

Step-by-step procedure

1. Step 1: Exhaust the utility's own grievance mechanism and keep the complaint and reply.
2. Step 2: Prepare an application to the Permanent Lok Adalat stating the dispute and the relief sought.
3. Step 3: Attach the bills, connection proof, complaint and reply.
4. Step 4: Attend the conciliation stage; the Adalat tries to settle the matter between the parties.
5. Step 5: If settlement fails, present your case for decision; the Adalat decides on merits.
6. Step 6: The award is binding like a civil court decree and enforceable accordingly.

Documents you need

• Written application with the dispute details
• Proof of the utility connection and consumer number
• Bills, receipts and payment records
• Complaint made to the utility and its reply
• Photographs or inspection reports for supply failures
• Identity and address proof
• Estimate of the loss claimed

Common mistakes to avoid

• Approaching the Adalat without first complaining to the utility, which leads to dismissal.
• Claiming more than the prescribed monetary limit, which the Adalat cannot decide.
• Not carrying the connection number and bills to the hearing.
• Treating the Adalat as an appellate court over the utility's order.

Where to go in Asansol

The Permanent Lok Adalat sits at Asansol Court. It handles a large volume of electricity billing disputes involving WBSEDCL and water supply complaints against Asansol Municipal Corporation.

Frequently asked questions

What disputes does the Permanent Lok Adalat in Asansol handle?

Disputes relating to public utility services — electricity supply and billing, water, sanitation, telephone and internet, insurance claims and transport services — within the prescribed monetary limit.

Do I need a lawyer at the Permanent Lok Adalat in Asansol?

No. Parties appear in person and the Adalat assists them. Legal aid is available free through the District Legal Services Authority if needed.

Is the Permanent Lok Adalat award binding?

Yes. An award of the Permanent Lok Adalat is deemed to be a decree of a civil court and is final and binding on the parties, and cannot be appealed on merits.

How much can the Permanent Lok Adalat decide in a utility dispute?

The Adalat can decide disputes up to the monetary limit prescribed under the Legal Services Authorities Act 1987. Larger claims must go before the consumer commission or a civil court.