Supreme Court Ruling Shakes Up Arbitration Landscape for Indian PSUs

The Supreme Court has ruled against the practice of state-run companies unilaterally appointing arbitrators, impacting the arbitration process for public sector units (PSUs) and potentially shifting the focus towards mediation. This decision, made on Chief Justice D. Y. Chandrachud’s last day in office, is a result of the finance ministry’s push to reduce PSU arbitration costs and reflects the government’s growing preference for mediation as an alternative dispute resolution method.

India’s National Security Advisor to Attend BRICS Meeting Amidst Ukraine Conflict

India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, will attend a BRICS meeting in Moscow on September 10-11, 2024, amidst growing international calls for a resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The meeting comes on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visits to both Moscow and Kyiv, sparking discussions about India’s potential role in mediating peace. This article details key aspects of the upcoming meeting, including the purpose, background, expected discussions, and India’s position.

Qatar’s Rise as a Global Mediator: From Darfur to Ukraine

Qatar, an oil-rich Gulf nation, has emerged as a prominent player in international conflict resolution. From mediating the Darfur peace deal to facilitating the US-Taliban agreement, Qatar’s diplomatic efforts have garnered global recognition. This article examines the factors behind Qatar’s success as a mediator, highlighting its unique geopolitical positioning, strategic partnerships, and proactive diplomatic approach.

India’s Legal Education System Adapts to New Criminal Laws

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has directed law schools across India to incorporate new criminal laws enacted in July 2024 into their curriculum. The changes include training in mediation and a focus on emerging technologies like blockchain and AI. This move aims to equip future lawyers with the skills needed to navigate the evolving legal landscape.

Supreme Court Stays Divorce for Chef Kunal Kapur, Orders Mediation

The Supreme Court has ordered a stay on a Delhi High Court verdict granting divorce to chef Kunal Kapur. The court has referred the case to the Mediation Centre to explore the possibility of a settlement between Kapur and his estranged wife. The high court had granted the divorce based on accusations of cruelty by the wife, but the Supreme Court has intervened, hoping to facilitate a reconciliation.

India to Establish Mediation Council to Boost Dispute Resolution, Ease of Doing Business

The Indian government is set to establish the Mediation Council of India (MCI) by the end of the year, aiming to promote out-of-court dispute resolution and enhance the ease of doing business in the country. The MCI, formed under the Mediation Act of 2022, will oversee the regulation, education, and certification of mediators, ultimately aiming to make mediation a preferred method for dispute resolution, particularly for businesses.

Calgary Library Workers Seek Mediation After Rejecting Unsatisfactory Wage Deal

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1169, representing library workers in Calgary, rejected a wage deal from the city on Monday, deeming it “insulting.” The union claims the offer fell short of the increases granted to other city employee groups and fails to address critical issues faced by library staff. CUPE Local 1169 will initiate mediation and collaborate with other union groups seeking wage adjustments.

Mediation: A Transformative Shift in Dispute Resolution

India’s Mediation Act, 2023, is revolutionizing dispute resolution by promoting amicable settlements through mediation. The act formalizes mediation and includes various forms, such as pre-litigation, court-annexed, online, and community mediation. Mediation is seen as a synergistic approach to traditional legal procedures, fostering open dialogue and reconciliation. However, barriers to skill development exist, including the current requirement of 15 years of professional experience for mediators. To address this, innovative training methods like co-mediation and shadow mediation should be incorporated into the Mediation Act, 2023, alongside a structured mediation training module in law school curriculum. By empowering the next generation of mediators and integrating mediation into legal education, India can cultivate a robust mediation culture and enhance the efficiency and harmony of its justice system.

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