GANDERBAL: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Ganderbal conducted a training programme for the Community Mediators under the NALSA Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on “Community Mediation Towards Litigation-Free Rural India” at the Meeting Hall of District Court Complex, Ganderbal.
Abdul Nasir, Chairman, District Legal Services Authority (Principal District & Sessions Judge), Ganderbal, in his address, emphasized the significant role of Community Mediators in promoting a culture of dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful settlement of disputes, particularly in rural and local communities. He stressed that effective community mediation can help reduce unnecessary litigation and strengthen access to justice for the common people.
Sheikh Babar Hussain, Secretary, DLSA Ganderbal, in his welcome address, highlighted the importance of community-based dispute resolution mechanisms in facilitating accessible, timely and amicable settlement of disputes at the grassroots level.
The training programme provided the participants with a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework governing mediation and legal services, including the relevant provisions of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 and the Mediation Act, 2023. The participants were also sensitized about the concept and objectives of Community Mediation, its basic principles, the nature of disputes amenable to community-level resolution, and the role and responsibilities of Community Mediators.
Special emphasis was laid on effective communication, active listening, negotiation, impartiality, confidentiality and other essential mediation techniques required for facilitating meaningful dialogue between disputing parties. The resource persons, who are trained mediators, shared their practical knowledge and experience with the participants and provided valuable insights into handling community disputes in a fair, neutral and constructive manner.
At the conclusion of the training, certificates were distributed among the newly proposed Community Mediators in recognition of their participation in the training programme, encouraging them to undertake their role with dedication and a commitment towards facilitating amicable resolution of disputes at the community level.
The training was aimed at equipping the newly proposed Community Mediators with the requisite knowledge, skills and practical understanding to facilitate effective community-based dispute resolution and to contribute towards the broader objective of creating a litigation-free rural India.
