- Wednesday, May 08, 2024
The new court will operate both remotely and in person, and will comprise around “30 magistrates and 15 judges, of whom most will be women”, said a UK media report.
By: Twinkle Roy
BRITISH-SIKH lawyers in the UK have established a new court as a platform to resolve family and civil disputes in the community, a media report in the country said on Thursday (25).
The court came into existence last weekend at a ceremony at the Old Hall at Lincoln’s Inn in London, The Times reported. The occasion was marked by religious chants, it added.
One of the court’s funders, Baldip Singh, a 33-year-old barrister in London, told the outlet that the court will assist Sikh families in resolving conflicts and disputes “in line with Sikh principles” and must not be confused with a religious tribunal.
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The new court will operate both remotely and in person, and will comprise around “30 magistrates and 15 judges, of whom most will be women”.
Its magistrates will mediate between parties to arrive at a settlement, besides advising them to a course to help them to work on specific issues, the Times report added.
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The courses have been created following consultations with Sikh charities and would cover low-level domestic violence, anger management, gambling and substance misuse. They will be available in both English and Punjabi languages.
If mediation is unsuccessful, a case can be brought in front of a Sikh court judge, who can give a legally binding judgment under the Arbitration Act.
Singh said under the new court’s rules, both parties in a case would have to consent to participating.
Sharan Bhachu, a barrister reportedly sworn in as the “lead family judge” for the new court last week, said they do not aim to take over and upset the English courts, the report added.
(With PTI inputs)
