Kerala High Court Directs Immediate Disbursal Of Victim Compensation From Allocated Funds, Seeks Report On Status Of Mediators' Remuneration

The Division Bench of Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V.M. also directed the Member Secretary to file a report confirming that the entire amount earmarked for victims' compensation has been released to beneficiaries. The Secretary has also been asked to indicate whether further sums have accrued and are now due under victim compensation schemes.

The Bench was hearing two connected pleas, including a suo motu petition concerning the infrastructural requirements of mediation centres, adequate support staff and regular office stationery. In the connected matter, one of the prayers was for enhancement of mediator fees.

The Court noted that the Government has already sanctioned funds for payment of mediators' remuneration up to December 31, 2025. It directed KELSA to report whether the sanctioned amount has been fully utilized and exhausted. If any portion remains unpaid, the authority must ensure completion of the payments within a fortnight.

The Court further directed the Secretary of KELSA to communicate with the Government regarding the need for additional allocations, both for victim compensation and for mediators' remuneration.

In addition, all District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) and KELSA have been instructed to ensure that mediators receive their remuneration as expeditiously as possible. Monthly statements regarding the utilization and allocation of mediation-related funds are also to be furnished.

The Bench took note of an affidavit filed on May 23, 2026, by the Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department, detailing steps taken by the Government on proposals regarding infrastructure requirement of mediation centres, creation of model mediation offices and sub-centres and procurement of infrastructural items required for the mediation.

The Court also recorded that a proposal to enhance the honorarium payable to mediators with effect from April 1, 2026, remains under the Government's consideration.

The Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department, has been directed to file a fresh affidavit setting out developments that have occurred after May 23, 2026, and detailing the status of proposals that are still pending consideration.

The Court further ordered that if KELSA submits any request for additional funds toward victim compensation or mediators' remuneration, the Finance Department must explain the process adopted and ensure that necessary funds are released after due verification of the demand.

The matter has been posted for further consideration after four weeks.