'Extraordinary Artistry' : Supreme Court Lauds Justice Kurian Joseph's Mediation Skills After Settlement Of 27-Year Dispute

The Supreme Court on Monday praised the “extraordinary artistry and refined skill” of former SC judge Justice Kurian Joseph for successfully mediating a settlement in a decades-old property dispute that had wound its way through various courts since 1998.

A Bench of Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh, while recording the settlement, observed that Justice Joseph, with his "grace and wisdom" and "gentle guidance and unwavering composure", transformed discord into dialogue and guided the parties toward a conclusion.

"That the parties have been able to arrive at such harmonious accord is a testament to the extraordinary artistry and refined skill of the mediator. It required from him a rare combination of insight and sensitivity, a capacity to discern unspoken concerns, and a patience that remains steady even as emotions swell," the bench noted in its order.

The Court added that this case is an example that mediation can be profoundly effective and deeply preferable in the resolution of property disputes.

The Court was hearing appeals arising out of Special Leave Petitions challenging a 2024 judgment of the Telangana High Court relating to the validity of a 1968 sale deed executed without the consent of a co-parcener. After observing that the 27-year litigation showed “no sight of certainty in the immediate future,” the Court had earlier persuaded parties to attempt mediation before Justice Kurian Joseph.

Later, counsels informed the Court that all disputes had been amicably resolved. The mediator's report, along with a signed settlement agreement dated November 22, 2025, was placed on record. The respondents undertook to pay a total sum of Rs. 2.5 crore to the appellants in full and final settlement. The statements were accepted, and the Court directed that a decree be drawn in terms of the settlement.

Court praises Justice Kurian Joseph

The Court recorded its “deepest gratitude” to Justice Kurian Joseph, observing that the parties' ability to arrive at a harmonious accord was a testament to his insight, sensitivity and patience.  

"We are extremely grateful to Hon'ble Mr. Justice Kurian Joseph (Retired), Former Judge of this Court, who, on our request, mediated a successful settlement between the parties. This case serves as an example of how profoundly effective and deeply preferable mediation can be in the resolution of property disputes, for it allows the parties to find common ground through and minimal court involvement while retaining ownership over the outcome they ultimately arrive at.

With the calm and considered environment that mediation provides, tensions are eased, perspectives are broadened, and the rigidity begins to yield to understanding. It is in this setting that individuals who once stood firmly opposed are able to craft a resolution that reflects not only legal rights but also fairness, practicality, and mutual respect.

That the parties have been able to arrive at such harmonious accord is a testament to the extraordinary artistry and refined skill of the mediator. It required from him a rare combination of insight and sensitivity, a capacity to discern unspoken concerns, and a patience that remains steady even as emotions swell. With gentle guidance and unwavering composure, he has transformed discord into dialogue and guided the parties toward a conclusion that each can embrace with satisfaction and dignity.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the mediator for his exemplary efforts, for the grace and wisdom with which he has navigated each nuance of this matter, and for enabling all involved to leave not only with their dispute resolved but with renewed confidence in the power of understanding and the quiet strength of mediated settlement."