Courts Will Not Automatically Refer Cases To Mediation: CJI Surya Kant

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant clarified that courts will not mechanically send cases to mediation. 

He said that an internal team of experts first examines whether a dispute is genuinely suitable for settlement before any reference is made.

Emphasising judicial responsibility, the CJI noted that courts remain fully equipped to decide cases on merits if mediation does not succeed.

The CJI further observed that mediation is meant to complement, and not replace, other dispute resolution mechanisms such as arbitration and conciliation, ensuring a balanced and effective justice delivery system.