CJI Surya Kant Advocates ‘Multi-Door Courthouse’ For Faster Justice
Multi-Door Courthouse Mediation is being pitched as a transformative justice model by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to reduce pendency and expand access to dispute resolution mechanisms beyond traditional trials.
Courts As Dispute Resolution Hubs
Addressing the inaugural session of the Bar Council of India’s National Conference and Symposium on Mediation in South Goa, the CJI explained that a multi-door courthouse would offer multiple pathways—mediation, arbitration, and litigation-under one roof. According to him, justice seekers should find the most suitable method based on the nature of their dispute.
Importantly, he clarified that while mediation and arbitration can resolve many conflicts, courts must always remain ready for fair and transparent trials in cases that require adjudication.
Mediation Not Weakness, But Evolution of Law
Highlighting the importance of mediation, Justice Kant said mediation reflects the highest evolution of law, not its weakness. He noted that litigation often damages relationships, whereas mediation attempts to preserve them by encouraging dialogue and participation.
To strengthen mediation nationwide, he stressed the urgent need to bridge the gap between demand and supply of trained mediators. Although India currently has around 39,000 trained mediators, the country requires more than 2.5 lakh to ensure effective implementation across all judicial levels.
Need For Legal Training In the AI And Cybercrime Era
Meanwhile, the CJI also raised concerns about emerging challenges posed by artificial intelligence and cybercrime. He observed that cybercriminals constantly invent new methods, creating complex legal issues that demand specialised knowledge. Therefore, he proposed establishing a national-level legal academy to train lawyers in handling AI-driven legal challenges and cyber offences.
He urged members of the Bar to ask whether they are adequately prepared to represent victims of sophisticated cybercrimes in the years ahead.
‘Mediation for Nation’ Campaign Shows Promise
Justice Kant shared encouraging outcomes from the ‘Mediation for Nation’ campaign launched in July to reduce case backlogs. The initiative, which focuses on disputes such as matrimonial, commercial, and motor accident cases, has already delivered better-than-expected results.
The event was attended by several Supreme Court judges, legal experts, and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. Earlier in the day, the CJI also participated in a symbolic walk for mediation awareness in Panaji, reinforcing his belief that mediation offers a cost-effective, win-win solution for justice delivery. Follow for updates on FM News.
