Mediation key to reducing court cases, ensuring timely justice says judge

Emphasising the growing importance of alternative dispute resolution, Principal District and Sessions Judge K.G. Shanti said that mediation plays a crucial role in reducing the mounting burden of cases in courts and ensuring timely justice to the litigant public.

She was speaking after inaugurating a five-day, 40-hour mediation training programme for newly empanelled mediators from Ballari, Koppal and Raichur districts at the new court hall on Talur Road in Ballari recently.

The programme was jointly organised by the Karnataka Mediation Centre, the Karnataka State Legal Services Authority and the District Legal Services Authority.

Ms. Shanti said that mediation differs significantly from conventional court procedures as mediators not only listen to disputes but also create a conducive and amicable environment for resolution between parties.

“Mediation leads to permanent settlement of disputes and eliminates the need for appeals,” she noted.

Pointing out that many disputes arise out of ego, she said that adopting a collective approach instead of an individualistic mindset will help ease pressure on the judiciary and promote harmony in society.

She added that the training programme will not only impart legal knowledge but also help mediators develop a calm and balanced approach, contributing to their overall personality development.

Senior trainer Brinda Nandakumar said that mediation is essential in today’s fast-paced world to reduce the burden on courts and resolve disputes amicably.

“Mediation is not just a technical process limited to lawyers; it is a life skill that can be applied in everyday situations to foster peace and better relationships,” she said.

She observed that unlike earlier times, people today lack the patience to pursue prolonged litigation, making it necessary to adopt alternative mechanisms such as mediation.

She also expressed happiness over interacting with legal professionals in Ballari during her first visit to the city.

District Bar Association president Ram Brahmam said that mediation has emerged as a powerful tool for resolving disputes peacefully amid rising case pendency.

He noted that nearly 95% of cases referred for mediation currently fail to reach settlement and called upon lawyers to make more effective use of the process after undergoing training.

Member-Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority and Senior Civil Judge Rajesh N. Hosamane, newly selected mediators, advocates and judicial officers from Ballari, Raichur and Koppal districts were present.