IAMC Hyderabad Mediation Training Programme for Telangana Advocates
The International Arbitration and Mediation Centre (IAMC), Hyderabad, on September 14, 2024, commenced a mediation training programme, specifically tailored for the advocates of Telangana. The aim of this initiative is to develop a group of qualified mediators from within the legal fraternity.
(Left to Right – Mr. Tariq Khan, Registrar, International Arbitration and Mediation Centre (IAMC), Hyderabad; Honourable Sri Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy, Judge, High Court for the State of Telangana; Mr. A J Jawad, Senior-Mediator Trainer; Mr. Shanthi Bhushan Rao, Secretary, Telangana High Court Advocates’ Association (THCAA))
The event was graced by Honourable Sri Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy as the Chief Guest. In his inaugural address, he discussed the evolution of mediation, from the traditional Panchayati Raj system to the current statutory framework under the Mediation Act, 2023. He explained that while traditional systems were dispensed with because of two concerns “lack of empowerment and neutrality”, the new legislative framework effectively addresses these issues.
He further highlighted the changing public perception of ADR mechanisms. Once viewed as processes mainly relevant to the corporate sector, these mechanisms are now recognized as an effective method in other sectors as well. He noted that the introduction of the Family Courts Act, 1984 and Lok Adalats, has led to greater recognition of the ADR processes due to their effectiveness in resolving disputes efficiently. Drawing from his personal experience, he emphasized two key aspects of mediation. First, mediation is an art. Second, it can be applied to all matters, except non-compoundable criminal offences. He also highlighted the long journey of civil suits, which often results in settlement. Therefore, he encouraged the advocates to consider mediation before “painful” litigation, stating, “When the road of a civil suit journey often ends with settlement, why not do this at the beginning of the road itself?”
In his concluding remarks, Honourable Sri Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy acknowledged the efforts of IAMC in taking various initiatives that have brought Hyderabad to the forefront of dispute resolution. He expressed his hope that with the Centre’s proactive approach, Hyderabad will continue to strengthen its role as a leading hub for alternative dispute resolution.
Mr. Tariq Khan, Registrar of IAMC, extended his gratitude to Honourable Sri Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy for gracing the occasion and encouraging mediation. He also thanked Mr. A.J. Jawad, Senior Mediator-Trainer for the Supreme Court of India’s Mediation and Conciliation Project Committee (MCPC), for conducting this mediation training.
Mr. Tariq Khan concluded by saying, “ Mediation is here to stay. It never fails. If a settlement is not reached now, it may still happen later. Therefore, rather than saying that mediation has failed, we should just say that, at this juncture, the matter could not be settled.”