What is quasi judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples. (Not more than 200 words)

A quasi-judicial body is an authority that is not a conventional court but performs adjudicatory functions under a statute or delegated authority. It decides disputes, determines rights or liabilities and follows principles of natural justice.

Essential characteristics

• It receives claims or complaints, gives notice, hears affected parties, evaluates evidence and issues a reasoned decision.
• Its procedure is generally less formal than a court's, but it must act fairly, impartially and within jurisdiction.
• Its decisions may be appealable, reviewable or subject to judicial review, depending on the governing law.

Examples and significance

• The National Green Tribunal adjudicates environmental disputes and grants relief within its statutory mandate.
• The Central Information Commission decides appeals and complaints under the transparency law.
• Consumer commissions determine deficiency in goods and services and award statutory relief.
• The Election Commission decides certain disputes and exercises regulatory powers, though its functions are not all adjudicatory.
• Such bodies reduce court burdens and provide specialised expertise, but require independence, procedural fairness and timely appointments.

Keywords: quasi-judicial body; natural justice; adjudication; tribunal; statutory authority; judicial review.