The Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008

The Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008 was enacted to provide for the establishment of Gram Nyayalayas or village courts for speedy and cost-effective justice delivery in rural areas. The act is aimed at providing access to justice for people in rural areas who cannot afford to approach regular courts due to financial and other constraints. The act provides for the establishment of Gram Nyayalayas at the intermediate panchayat level or a group of intermediate panchayats in a district. The Gram Nyayalayas have jurisdiction to try criminal cases, civil suits, and claims or disputes which are specified in the act. The act also provides for the appointment of Nyayadhikaris or judges who will preside over the Gram Nyayalayas. The Nyayadhikaris will be appointed by the state government in consultation with the high court of the state.