Mediation Act 2023 Transforms Justice Delivery System

The second National Mediation Conference held in Bhubaneswar in 2025 brought into light mediation as a vital reform in India’s justice system. Key legal figures and policymakers emphasised mediation’s role in resolving disputes swiftly and encouraging social harmony. The Mediation Act, 2023, was recognised as a landmark law that elevates mediation from an optional process to a statutory pillar of justice.

Recent Developments in Mediation

The Mediation Act, 2023, provides statutory backing to mediation, making it an integral part of the judicial framework. This law ensures mediation is participatory, accessible, and credible. It aims to reduce the backlog of cases in courts by encouraging amicable dispute resolution outside traditional litigation.

Core Principles of Mediation

Mediation is founded on four key principles known as the four C’s – cost-effectiveness, confidentiality, control, and creativity. These principles ensure that mediation offers fair and affordable solutions. Parties retain control over outcomes, discussions remain private, and innovative solutions can be crafted without adversarial conflict.

Role in Judicial Reform

States like Odisha are pioneering mediation expansion as part of judicial reform efforts. Mediation is seen as a movement promoting peace, goodwill, and justice. It provides quick access to justice and relieves courts of excessive caseloads. Collaboration between judiciary and government has been crucial in scaling mediation services nationwide.

Social and Legal Impact

Mediation encourages trust and preserves relationships between disputing parties. It shifts focus from confrontation to dialogue and consensus. This approach supports social harmony and builds a culture of peaceful dispute resolution. The conference also positioned Odisha as a centre for legal innovation aligned with national goals.

National and Judicial Support

The conference saw participation from top judicial authorities including the Chief Justice of India and Supreme Court judges. Their support puts stress on the judiciary’s commitment to integrating mediation into mainstream justice delivery. The combined efforts of the judiciary, government, and legal community are enhancing mediation’s reach and effectiveness.