Mediation: The Heart of Justice for Viksit Bharat – Key Takeaways from SAMA’s 2025 Mediation Week in Mumbai and Delhi, Shaping India’s Dispute Resolution Future

Mediation in India: A Hidden Gem

In August 2025, a surprising statistic echoed through auditoriums in Mumbai and Delhi: 54% of Indians have never heard of mediation. This was shocking, especially since mediation has helped resolve over 5.3 million disputes. A method with such potential was flying under the radar.

The Indian Mediation Week 2025

The Indian Mediation Week brought together legal experts, corporate leaders, and policymakers. They gathered to discuss how mediation could shift the way India handles disputes, making courts the last resort. Topics ranged from redefining resolution for businesses to building trust in lending through mediation.

Dr. Manoj Kumar, an official at the Ministry of Law, emphasized that mediation reflects the essence of justice for a developed India. His remarks painted a hopeful vision for how India can resolve conflicts.

Justice Navin Chawla of the Delhi High Court noted that India is returning to its ancient methods of dispute resolution, moving away from the rigid structures of colonial systems. He argued that mediation should be the first choice instead of a last-minute effort.

Building a Mediative Infrastructure

Dr. Kumar spoke about implementing mediation in various government services. By linking consumer forums with helplines and encouraging police departments to set up mediation cells, the vision is to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than strictly through laws.

Recent statistics indicate that online resolution practices are gaining traction. The Supreme Court’s “Mediation for Nation” campaign aims to raise awareness across the country, from metropolitan areas to small towns. This includes a drive to utilize digital platforms for mediation, making it more accessible.

Just over the past few years, online mediation has grown significantly. The pandemic accelerated its adoption, allowing parties from different regions to connect easily. This digital shift means fewer barriers for those in rural areas or underserved communities.

Changing Professional Perspectives

During a candid discussion, Senior Advocate Sriram Panchu raised concerns about lengthy litigation processes. He suggested that mediation could close cases in just a few sessions, making it a viable option for many who otherwise might face prolonged legal battles.

This new perspective has caught the attention of many lawyers. Even a decade ago, the interest in mediation was minimal. Now, more lawyers are looking to get certified in mediation, recognizing its value.

What’s Next for Mediation in India?

The upcoming months are crucial as the “Mediation for Nation” campaign continues until September 2025. The aim is to educate people on the benefits of mediation. With an uphill battle to climb, changing the perception of mediation requires consistent effort—one success story at a time.

As societies evolve, the methods we use to handle disputes must adapt as well. In India, a cultural shift towards dialogue and understanding could redefine justice. The potential benefits of mediation are vast, and it’s time for more people to discover this hidden gem.

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