Chief Justice Surya Kant highlighted the efficacy of mediation, stating voluntary compliance rates for agreements reached through mediation can be as high as 90%, significantly improving resolution outcomes compared to imposed decisions.
CJI Surya Kant Advocates for Mediation in Dispute Resolutions
During the International ADR Conference 2026, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant emphasized the superior effectiveness of mediation in settling disputes. He noted studies indicating that voluntary compliance with mediation agreements can reach as high as 90%, stressing that parties are more likely to honor resolutions they have helped negotiate.
CJI Surya Kant remarked,
“A party who has participated in framing the resolution is more inclined to uphold it.”This statement reflects the intrinsic motivational factors that underpin successful mediation outcomes.
The chief justice urged legal professionals to promote mediation as a preferred mechanism over litigation, pointing out the benefits of collaborative problem-solving. He viewed mediation as a vital tool for enhancing access to justice and reducing backlogs in the judicial system.
For practitioners, this reinforcement of mediation’s utility is timely, as it aligns with ongoing efforts to bolster alternate dispute resolution (ADR) frameworks. Legal professionals should advocate for mediation in their practice, considering its potential for greater compliance and amicable resolutions.
Citations
- - (2026) 1 SCC 200
