STATE OF PUNJAB vs GANPAT RAM

The Supreme Court addressed the issue of whether a pension matter could be disposed of by Lok Adalat under Section 20 of The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. The Court held that the Lok Adalat's decision to award 12% interest on delayed pension payments was not valid as the matter did not meet the criteria for Lok Adalat proceedings. However, the Court affirmed the High Court's conclusion that the respondent was entitled to relief despite the improper disposal by Lok Adalat, emphasizing the importance of adhering to statutory provisions in such matters.