Bhubaneswar: The Second National Mediation Conference was inaugurated with grandeur today at the Lok Seva Bhavan Convention Hall, Bhubaneswar. The event witnessed the presence of the Governor of Odisha, Dr. Haribabu Kambhampati, Chief Justice of India Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Justice of Orissa High Court Harish Kumar Tandon and State Law Minister Prithwiraj Harichandan, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey towards strengthening alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Formally inaugurating the conference, in his presidential address, the Governor said that mediation is not only about resolving disputes but also about building trust, preserving relationships, and creating social harmony. He expressed pride that Odisha is hosting such a landmark event that will strengthen the culture of dialogue and consensus across the country, saying mediation is a timeless practice rooted in dialogue and consensus, bridging divides, healing relationships, and providing fair and lasting solutions.
Chief Justice of India Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, in his inaugural address, underscored the significance of the Mediation Act, 2023. He observed that statutory recognition of mediation has transformed it from being an optional remedy to a credible pillar of justice delivery. He remarked that the Act ensures justice that is participatory, equitable, and accessible, while also helping reduce the ever-growing pendency of cases before courts.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reiterated Odisha’s commitment to judicial reforms and alternative dispute resolution.
According to him, the conference will further consolidate efforts to make mediation a cornerstone of India’s justice delivery system, thereby ensuring efficiency, inclusiveness, and trust in the legal process.
The Chief Minister added, “At its core, mediation is about dialogue, not dispute. It is about building bridges, not walls. Mediation rests on four vital elements—the Four C’s—cost-effectiveness, confidentiality, control and creativity. These four factors are immensely valuable for both parties to a conflict, offering them solutions that are fair, affordable and harmonious.”
He further remarked, “If a part of any dispute can be resolved through mediation, it provides relief to the courts. What is important is that people can access justice more quickly and easily. I firmly believe that mediation should not be seen merely as a process, but as a movement. It is a movement for peace, goodwill, and justice.”
Chief Minister emphasised the need for the quick implementation of the recommendations emerging from the conference.
He noted that all conclusions and advice shared during the sessions should be recorded and immediately sent to the CM by the State Law Department. According to the Chief Minister, this process will ensure that the system is made more accessible, trusted, and respected by the people. He added that the government will work in a manner that enhances public confidence in mediation and ensures that the procedures are observed efficiently and effectively.
Chief Justice of Orissa High Court Harish Tandon noted that Odisha has taken meaningful steps to expand mediation services.
Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan applauded the joint efforts of the judiciary and government in promoting mediation nationwide.
The inaugural session was further graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including Justice Surya Kant, Judge of the Supreme Court of India; Attorney General of India R. Venkataramani; and Advocate General of Odisha Pitambar Acharya and Chief Justices and Judges from several states.
Advocate General Pitambar Acharya delivered the welcome address and conveyed a special message from the Prime Minister of India. Justice Manas Ranjan Pathak concluded the inaugural session by giving the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all participants and speakers.
