Millions of motorists across India are expected to benefit from the upcoming National Lok Adalat 2025, scheduled for 13 September, which will provide a one-day window to settle long-pending traffic challans. The initiative, organised under the aegis of legal services authorities, aims to ease the burden of minor cases on the judicial system while giving citizens a cost-effective and time-saving solution.
This year’s Lok Adalat will primarily focus on common traffic violations such as driving without a helmet or seat belt, over-speeding, wrong parking, jumping traffic signals, or failing to produce a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Offenders will be able to resolve such challans with reduced fines or complete waivers, depending on the case. However, serious offences—such as drunk driving, hit-and-run cases, negligent driving causing death, or vehicles involved in crimes—will remain outside the ambit of this settlement.
How to participate in Delhi
For Delhi residents, the Delhi Lok Adalat 2025 will be held across multiple courts, including Dwarka, Tis Hazari, Rohini, Rouse Avenue, Karkardooma, Patiala House, and Saket Courts. Applicants must first register through the Delhi Traffic Police portal (traffic.delhipolice.gov.in).
Steps include filling out the Lok Adalat Token Registration Form with personal and vehicle details, submitting pending challan information, and downloading the appointment letter generated after registration. The confirmation, containing a token number, will also be sent via SMS or email. On the day of hearing, applicants are required to carry their appointment letter, token number, and original vehicle documents. Authorities advise reaching at least one hour before the allotted slot.
Some centres may also allow walk-in settlements, depending on local arrangements.
Cases eligible for settlement
The following types of violations will be considered:
- Driving without seat belt or helmet
- Jumping red lights
- Wrong or illegal parking
- Driving without a valid licence or fitness certificate
- Over-speeding
- Absence of a valid PUC certificate
- Ignoring traffic signs or driving in the wrong lane
- Vehicles without number plates
- Incorrectly issued challans
Violations excluded from relief
The Lok Adalat will not cover serious offences such as:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Hit-and-run incidents
- Death caused due to negligent driving
- Driving by minors
- Illegal racing or speed trials
- Vehicles used in criminal activity
- Challans issued outside Delhi or those already under trial in courts
Broader benefits
The National Lok Adalat is conducted four times a year across India, covering not just traffic challans but also disputes related to consumer grievances, loan defaults, matrimonial issues, and other minor cases. Authorities highlight that the initiative significantly reduces the load on regular courts and ensures faster delivery of justice.
For vehicle owners, this special drive means an opportunity to clear dues at minimal cost, avoid legal complications, and contribute to safer, rule-abiding roads.