Mediation Is an Effective Tool for Access to Justice: Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj at DBRANLU Constitution Day Session

Sonepat, November 23, 2025 — Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University (DBRANLU) marked Constitution Day 2025 with a powerful and insightful seminar focused on one of India’s most pressing judicial concerns—court congestion. The session highlighted the growing importance of mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as essential pillars for improving access to justice.

Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj Highlights Mediation’s Transformative Role

The keynote address was delivered by Hon'ble Mr. Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj, Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court. Speaking on the theme “Mediation as an effective tool for access to justice”, Justice Bhardwaj emphasized how mediation has rapidly evolved from a supplementary mechanism to an indispensable part of modern judicial systems.

He noted that mediation not only eases the burden on courts but also helps preserve relationships between disputing parties, ultimately promoting social harmony. Commending DBRANLU’s commitment to ADR education, he encouraged law students to explore mediation as a meaningful and impactful career path.

Dr. Rajiv Mani Outlines Government’s Vision for ADR Reform

The seminar continued with an address by Dr. Rajiv Mani, Union Law Secretary and Secretary, Department of Legislative Affairs. He elaborated on the government’s integrated approach to institutionalizing ADR mechanisms nationwide.

Dr. Mani described the Arbitration and Mediation legislation of 2023 as a landmark reform that reshapes traditional legal processes into faster, more efficient tools of justice delivery. Connecting these reforms to India’s long-term development agenda, he stressed that achieving the goals of Viksit Bharat 2047 requires bold and progressive legislative initiatives.

He further highlighted his department’s work in law publication and codification, constitutional amendments, and ADR framework development, noting that conciliation and mediation now stand at the forefront of contemporary legal discourse.

Vinod Kumar Highlights ADR Benefits for MSMEs

Addressing the gathering virtually, Mr. Vinod Kumar, Honorary President of the India SME Forum, focused on the relevance of ADR for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. He explained that mediation provides MSMEs with practical solutions to operational disputes—solutions especially crucial for businesses with limited capital and high daily working demands.

He also underscored the rising value of online ADR platforms, which offer specialized, efficient dispute-resolution pathways. These platforms allow MSME owners to concentrate on business growth rather than long, resource-draining litigation. His remarks reinforced how ADR promotes both judicial decongestion and economic productivity.

DBRANLU Announces Major ADR Education Initiatives

The seminar also featured major institutional announcements. Prof. (Dr.) Devinder Singh, Vice-Chancellor, DBRANLU, unveiled a 40-hour mediation training programme to be launched in collaboration with the Punjab and Haryana High Court. He also announced the formation of a dedicated student mediation centre, both expected to become operational within the next six months.

DBRANLU further highlighted its expanding international and national collaborations, including its association with the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) and an extended partnership with the Indian Institute of Arbitration and Mediation (IIAM). These collaborations will offer students specialized training and a deeper understanding of arbitration best practices.

Event Successfully Hosted with Institutional Support

Special appreciation was extended to Prof. (Dr.) Ashutosh Mishra, Registrar, DBRANLU, whose efforts ensured the smooth organization of the event. The seminar received praise from dignitaries, faculty members, and students for its insightful discussions and forward-looking announcements.