Located on the western side of Nyay Mandir is the imposing Lal Court, a large red building constructed in the 1950s. It occupies the site where a garden once stood. Initially designed to accommodate Diwani and Faujdaari Courts, as well as a mediation center, Lal Court was likely built to alleviate the burden on the older Nyay Mandir court. Recently, both Lal Court and Nyay Mandir courts were relocated to a new complex outside the old city center.
The Lal Court Building :
In stark contrast to its predecessor, this three-story structure is characterized by its austere design with minimal ornamentation. Its semi-circular shape includes a courtyard at the rear. Entry is through a grand arched gateway, the upper half resembling a niche adorned with intricate “Jali” work on the backside. A name plaque of the court is prominently displayed across the arch, dividing it midway. Flanking the gateway are two windows also embellished with “Jali” work.
The exterior features exposed brickwork, hence its name Lal Court (where “Lal” in Gujarati means red). Horizontal bands in ivory traverse the facade, delineating each floor. These bands are interrupted by evenly spaced windows set on ivory sills. The building’s adornments are minimal, including small cupolas (“chattris”) atop the main entrance and two others at alternate entries/exits. Additionally, a projecting roof (“chajja”) with small brackets runs along the second-floor line.
Currently vacant, the future of Lal Court now rests in the hands of the authorities.
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