Shillong, Nov 04:The Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority, in collaboration with the Mediation and Conciliation Project Committee of the Supreme Court of India and the Mediation Committee of the High Court of Meghalaya, is organising a 40-hour training programme on “Concepts and Techniques of Mediation” at the Conference Hall of the High Court of Meghalaya.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya, Justice Revati Mohite Dere, expressed confidence that the programme would equip participants with the necessary skills to become effective mediators and facilitate the amicable resolution of disputes.
She highlighted the importance of mediation in resolving conflicts arising in workplaces, families and communities, describing it as a constructive alternative to the adversarial system of adjudication.
“Mediation fosters dialogue, understanding and empathy. Its true strength lies not in force, but in dialogue that heals and restores relationships,” she said, emphasising that mediation empowers parties to take control of their disputes and arrive at mutually beneficial solutions.
Illustrating the effectiveness of mediation through the example of two brothers disputing over an orange, Justice Dere explained how a mediator, by facilitating dialogue and understanding the needs of both parties, could help arrive at a solution that might not be possible through conventional litigation.
She observed that mediation, particularly in family, matrimonial and civil disputes involving family members, often brings greater satisfaction than lengthy judicial proceedings, as it helps preserve relationships and prevent prolonged litigation.
Justice Dere stressed that mediators must possess effective communication skills, patience, persistence, impartiality and an open mind. She said mediators should adopt appropriate strategies depending on the nature of disputes and carefully choose their words to ensure that neither party feels disadvantaged.
Highlighting the advantages of mediation, she said the process is less confrontational, flexible, confidential and cost-effective, while offering faster resolutions and greater control over outcomes. Unlike adversarial litigation, which can be time-consuming, emotionally draining and unpredictable, mediation provides parties with an opportunity to arrive at mutually acceptable settlements.
She noted that mediation could be effectively applied to business disputes, workplace conflicts, matrimonial matters, inheritance disputes and disagreements between neighbours and communities.
Referring to the increasing challenges in matrimonial relationships, Justice Dere underscored the importance of communication and dialogue in resolving differences, observing that mediation enables parties to find closure and focus on the future rather than remain engaged in prolonged conflict.
She further emphasised that mediation is rooted in the principles of voluntary participation, confidentiality, neutrality and mutual understanding, encouraging mediators to think creatively and develop innovative solutions suited to individual cases.
She urged all stakeholders in the justice delivery system to promote awareness of mediation and its benefits, enabling more people to resolve disputes amicably.
Justice H.S Thangkhiew and Justice W. Diengdoh, Judges of the High Court of Meghalaya, also addressed the gathering. The programme was attended by Justice B. Bhattacharjee, other judicial officers and participants.
