Mediation is an alternative method of resolving disputes without resorting to the courts. It is a structured, voluntary and interactive negotiation process where a neutral third-party uses specialized communication and negotiation techniques to help the parties in fulfilling their stated objectives. As a party-centred process, it focuses on the interests, needs and rights of the parties.
On 19th September, 2018, the students of B.A. LLB Vth Semester, were taken for an educational cum industrial visit to the mediation centre in Karkardooma court, New Delhi. The students were first taken to a POCSO court, where they witnessed a POCSO proceeding. Thereafter, the students were taken to a Family court. Here, the students witnessed a divorce proceeding. The students were then taken to a NDPS Court.
After the court visits, the students were then taken to the mediation centre. In the mediation centre, the students had an interaction session with the mediation centre incharge. The incharge enlightened the students about the nature of mediation and mediation process. She made the students understand the difference between Court proceedings and mediation. She also made them understand how mediation enables speedy and amicable settlement of disputes and guarantees utmost confidentiality. She explained how mediation can help preserve relationships, business and persona, that would likely be destroyed through years of litigation. Because it is a collaborative, rather than adversarial process, and because mediation is not inherently a win/lose process, important relationships can often be saved. Further she explained how in mediation, unlike in a lawsuit, the parties are in control. This means that the parties have a much greater say in negotiations and greater control over the outcome. The students actively participated in the session and asked several questions and clarified their doubts.
The students then had an interaction with the Secretary of DLSA East (District Legal Service Authority), Sh. Pawan Kumar. He enlightened the students about the legal frame work of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. He explained the purpose of the Act. He also explained the constitution of the Legal Service Authorities Act. He then described the various activities carried out by the DLSA at school and college levels for increasing Legal Aid awareness among the people.
