Punjab & Haryana High Court Questions Delay in Enforcing Community Mediation under Mediation Act, 2023

The Punjab & Haryana High Court has issued suo motu notices to the Union of India, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh UT over non-implementation of Community Mediation under Sections 43–44 (Chapter X) of the Mediation Act, 2023.

The Court observed that community mediation aimed at resolving grassroots disputes such as those between families, neighbours, and local groups remains enforced despite being highly effective in delivering inexpensive and speedy resolution. 

The court also noted that informal bodies like Khap Panchayats have a significant social influence in rural areas, and formal mediation must be enacted. The matter is listed for further hearing on August 5, 2025