New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu spoke on Saturday about the importance of having mediators in villages who can help solve problems before they go to court. She explained that while people in villages often help settle family or land disputes, they don’t have legal power, which makes it hard for them to solve issues effectively. Because of this, many people don’t trust their decisions, which leads to more conflicts.
During her speech at a conference on mediation, the president said it’s important to have a system where village disputes can be resolved locally, ensuring people live in peace without escalating problems. She pointed out that many small issues can be fixed without involving higher courts.
Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, CJI-designate B R Gavai, and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also spoke at the event. The president mentioned that a proper legal system from village courts to the Supreme Court hasn’t been established yet, possibly due to oversight or lack of time. She noted that while mediation is a traditional practice in villages, many people now understand that mediators don’t have any real power.
In his address, Minister Meghwal emphasized that mediation is not just a reform, but everyone’s responsibility. He encouraged the idea of “more mediate, less litigate.” He also reminded the audience that figures like Angad from the Ramayana and Lord Krishna from the Mahabharata acted as mediators, showing that mediation is part of Indian culture.
CJI Khanna announced the launch of the Mediation Association of India, which will promote the proposed Mediation Council of India, as outlined in the Mediation Act of 2023.
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