In a pioneering move aimed at enhancing access to justice, Kerala has become the first state in India to introduce online filing and hearing facilities for Permanent Lok Adalats.

Spearheaded by the Kerala State Legal Services Authority (KELSA), this initiative is designed to make legal processes more accessible, particularly for marginalized and remote communities.

The digital facility was formally launched on April 11 by Kerala High Court Chief Justice Nitin M Jamdar, during a function organized by KELSA. The move marks a significant step in the judiciary’s commitment to leveraging technology to deliver accessible and affordable justice to all citizens.

Currently, Kerala has three Permanent Lok Adalats located in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode. Previously, litigants had to physically visit these centres to file claims, a requirement that often posed challenges for individuals living in distant or underserved regions.

With the launch of the new system, applicants can now file their cases online from anywhere within the state. The platform, which will be fully functional from the first week of May, also supports online hearings—offering a seamless and convenient experience for users.

To ensure inclusivity, the online services will also be accessible through e-Sewa Kendras, as well as at district and taluk-level legal services authorities, thereby extending the benefits of digital justice to every corner of the state