The Supreme Court of India has launched a new initiative called Supreme Court Action for Mediated Adjudication and Disputes Harmonisation Across Nation (SAMADHAN) Samaroh. This program commenced on April 21 and will culminate in a Special Lok Adalat scheduled between August 21 and 23, 2026. The initiative aims to promote participative and doorstep delivery of justice through consent-based dispute resolution mechanisms.
Key Features of SAMADHAN Samaroh
The Special Lok Adalat is designed to facilitate amicable settlement of pending matters before the apex court. It encourages parties to resolve disputes through mediation and negotiated compromise, reducing the burden of prolonged adversarial hearings. The legal services authority emphasized that this approach aligns with the broader goal of reducing litigation burdens and fostering a culture of settlement.
Participation and Accessibility
The Supreme Court has invited advocates, litigants, and other stakeholders to actively participate in the process. Parties can engage in settlement discussions either in person or virtually through an online platform. This hybrid model ensures wider access for those unable to attend physically in New Delhi, making the justice delivery system more inclusive.
The program is expected to set a precedent for alternative dispute resolution in the highest court. By prioritizing mediation, the Supreme Court aims to decongest its docket and provide quicker, more harmonious outcomes for litigants.
