Emphasizing the significance of alternative dispute resolution, CJI Justice Surya Kant highlighted that mediation provides an efficient way to settle disputes. He encouraged people to consider mediation centers and Lok Adalats before resorting to formal litigation. At a conference, Justice Surya Kant compared elderly individuals to a “stepwell” of wisdom, equating retired judges to “living libraries” whose knowledge benefits society continuously.
The event, jointly organized by the Association of Retired Judges and the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority, focused on the role of retired judges in promoting ADR and legal awareness. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma praised the emphasis on Lok Adalats as an initial step in resolving disputes. He acknowledged the judiciary’s transformative impact on society, emphasizing the importance of judges’ words in driving positive social change.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma urged citizens to explore amicable dispute resolution methods like mediation and Lok Adalats before approaching the courts. He highlighted the judiciary’s role as a pillar of democracy and the protector of constitutional rights, ensuring equality for all. Sharma reiterated the need to leverage the expertise of experienced judges to enhance legal awareness and reduce litigation through mechanisms such as mediation and conciliation.
Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of accessible and transparent justice, Sharma discussed ongoing reforms under Digital India and e-Governance to modernize the justice system. He mentioned the transition to a justice-oriented framework with the introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, replacing the Indian Penal Code. The state government is actively implementing new laws through police and prosecution training, court expansion, and judicial infrastructure modernization.
Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma, Acting Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court, highlighted the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority’s role in promoting legal awareness and facilitating dispute resolution through Lok Adalats. The Rajasthan High Court introduced the ‘Uniform Registration Number System,’ published articles by former judges, and launched multi-utility vehicles to enhance access to legal services. Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari and various legal professionals were also in attendance.
