Village courts ensuring quick justice in Lakshmipur. Photo: BSS

By Abbas Hossain

LAKSHMIPUR, Oct 9, 2025 (BSS) - Village courts in Lakshmipur are playing an increasingly effective role in resolving local disputes quickly and affordably, earning the satisfaction of rural residents across the district.

Disputes among family members or neighbours are being settled amicably in the village courts of all 58 union parishads under five upazilas of the district. These courts, which operate following the country's conventional judicial model, are addressing issues under 29 categories swiftly and efficiently.

According to trial seekers and union parishad chairmen, seeking legal recourse through police stations or conventional courts often involves harassment and lengthy procedures. In contrast, the village courts offer timely and cost-effective resolution, much to the relief of local inhabitants.

Deputy Director of the Local Government Department Md. Jasim Uddin said Lakshmipur ranked first in the judicial performance of village courts across the Chattogram and Sylhet divisions in the past three months.

"The village courts are providing significant support to the rural people. Initiatives are underway to further strengthen this system and ensure that no citizen faces harassment," he added.
The Local Government Department reported that trial seekers and the accused appear at village courts on scheduled days each week. The courts are conducted by the respective union parishad chairmen, while parishad members and the parties involved present their arguments.

Following the appointment of administrators in 35 unions after August 5, judicial activities are being conducted by panel chairmen or designated representatives, as administrators are not authorised to run village courts.

From January to September this year, a total of 1,665 complaints were submitted to the village courts, of which 1,635 have already been resolved. On average, 185 disputes are being settled per month. As of October 7, 991 new complaints have been filed for resolution.

Several trial seekers shared their experiences, stating that long-standing disputes, particularly over land, were resolved quickly after filing a complaint with a nominal, government-set fee. They also mentioned that traditional legal routes often require significant time, money, and involve harassment - issues largely avoided through the village courts.

Laharkandi Union Parishad Chairman Mozammel Hossain said: "Applicants submit a complaint to the village court by paying the prescribed fee. Upon receiving the application, both parties are summoned with official notice. The court then hears both sides and resolves the issue through a jury board."

He added that the process is smooth, cost-effective, and free of harassment.

Village courts are currently resolving disputes in 29 categories, including family matters, dowry issues, and local land conflicts.

Deputy Director Jasim Uddin reiterated the administration's commitment to maintaining the standard of village court operations and ensuring accessibility for all citizens.