A sensitization program on “Samadhan Samaroh” was organized on Wednesday (June 17) under the aegis of the Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA) at the Odisha Judicial Academy, Cuttack with the objective of promoting mediation and conciliation as effective mechanisms for resolving disputes, particularly those involving the Government.

Justice Harish Tandon, Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court and Patron-in-Chief of OSLSA underscored the transformative role of mediation/conciliation in reducing pendency and fostering amicable dispute resolution. Emphasis was laid on the need for a collaborative approach amongst the judiciary, Govt. Departments and litigants to embrace pre-litigation and court-annexed mediation and conciliation mechanism.

Justice Manash Ranjan Pathak, Executive Chairperson, OSLSA highlighted the importance of legal aid institutions in facilitating access to justice and spreading amicable settlements, which not only reduce the burden on courts but also foster trust and cooperation between the State and its citizens.

Justice Krushna Ram Mohapatra, Chairman of the Orissa High Court Legal Services Committee (OHLSC) suggested for the proactive role of the State in minimizing avoidable litigation and adopting a pragmatic approach by resorting to mediation in appropriate cases.

An interactive session was conducted wherein Secretaries of the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs), Law Students and Nodal Officers of various Govt. Departments actively engaged with the speakers. Discussions centered on practical challenges, implementation strategies and the role of legal professionals, mediators/conciliators and administrative Officers in strengthening the culture of mediation and conciliation.

The program concluded with a collective resolve to promote “Samadhan Samaroh” as a people-centric initiative aimed at ensuring speedy, cost-effective and amicable settlement dispute.