ADr Lect 1
ADr Lect 1
ADr Lect 1
Introduction:
Today’s world has become globalised and commercial with the advent
of technology. People can now contact each other and settle business
deals and disputes when they are sitting at the opposite ends of the
world. Most people no longer have the time to go and file papers at the
courts and then wait long periods for a hearing. We are rapidly
approaching a stage where litigation is being replaced with alternative
dispute resolution (ADR), due to the inefficiencies and drawbacks of
litigation. India hasn’t quite reached a stage where litigation has been
completely displaced by ADR methods, but the legal system is
beginning to see the benefits of ADR.
What is alternative dispute resolution?
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) refers to a range of dispute
settlement methods which help the parties in the dispute to come to a
settlement without going to court, or without litigating on the said
matter. These methods usually involve a third party, who helps them in
settling the disputes. In many cases, ADR methods are used alongside
the litigation process as well through court authorization.
Background of ADR:
The process of arbitration is not alien to India. It always had been
practiced since time immemorial. In India, people believed in resolving
disputes within the four walls because this was somewhere considered as
an element to protect their dignity and personality in the society. Hence,
the mechanism gained significance in India since Ancient times
Ancient India
In ancient India when there was Kulas, people used to live in joint
families with their clans and when there was caste system prevalent in
the society.
The disputes among the kulas were resolved by the head of the family,
clan or Kula.
Likewise, when there was common trade, corporations or Shrenis among
the people, they used to appoint person to resolve the disputes within the
Shrenis.
There are different models for dispute resolution:
1. Right based model
This is a simple model, if there is a dispute on infringement of any right;
the redressal is given by the court.
2. Legislative model
It gives us the statutes, rules and regulations which acts as a guidance to
settle down disputes. A simple example could be industrial disputes
3. Interest based Model
For eg in case of contract, there must be consensus btw the parties who
agrees to certain terms and conditions and those are acceptable at one
point of time. But when one of them breach it then in order to protect the
interest, if they had in their agreement had decided any method for
dispute resolution. Then it will be followed.
Characteristics of ADR
ADR provides for simple, quick, cheap and accessible justice.
It not only resolves disputes but harmonizes the relation of the parties.
It can be viewed as a compromise where no one loses or wins but
everyone walks out as a winner.