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Justice Manmohan Advocates for Constructive Legal Debate, Mediation to Cut Pendency

Justice Manmohan emphasized that criticism of the justice system should be seen as constructive for improvement, not condemnation. He highlighted mediation as a promising alternative to tackle the massive backlog of over six crore pending cases. The judge also cautioned that technology, while a powerful enabler, is a double-edged sword requiring balanced use. The conclave discussed integrating mediation with technology and reforming legal education to build a more accessible justice system.

Key Points: Justice Manmohan on Constructive Criticism, Mediation for Justice System

  • Foster constructive legal debate
  • View criticism as improvement tool
  • Mediation key to reducing pendency
  • Tech is a double-edged sword
2 min read

"Healthy debate, not condemnation": Justice Manmohan calls for constructive criticism to strengthen justice system

Justice Manmohan calls for healthy debate to strengthen justice system, highlights mediation & tech as keys to resolving India's case backlog.

"pointing out shortcomings... should not be seen as condemnation but as an effort to improve institutional functioning - Justice Manmohan"

New Delhi, April 18

Emphasising the need for constructive criticism and meaningful dialogue within the legal system, Justice Manmohan on Saturday said that pointing out shortcomings in the justice delivery system should not be seen as condemnation but as an effort to improve institutional functioning.

Addressing the SILF-SLP Legal Conclave and Awards 2026, he underlined that fostering healthy debate on emerging legal issues is essential for strengthening the justice system and ensuring its evolution in line with contemporary challenges.

Justice Manmohan lauded the Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) for elevating the quality of discourse within both society and the courts, and stressed the importance of continuous engagement with academia, including international scholars. He urged Indian law firms to move beyond a narrow domestic perspective and adopt a global outlook, treating the world as their professional canvas.

He also described technology as a "double-edged weapon", cautioning that while it can be a powerful enabler, its misuse could prove detrimental, thereby necessitating a balanced and thoughtful approach.

Highlighting the persistent challenge of judicial pendency, Justice Manmohan called for introspection within the legal community, particularly questioning whether arbitration, once seen as a solution, has itself become part of the problem. He pointed to mediation as a promising alternative, noting its success in resolving matrimonial disputes and urging wider debate on its potential to ease the burden on courts.

The conclave, organised by SILF in collaboration with the Society of Legal Professionals (SLP) under the theme "Justice to All Accessible and Affordable," brought together leading voices from the legal fraternity to deliberate on reforms aimed at addressing over six crore pending cases in India.

During the event, Chetan Sharma highlighted the transformative role of mediation and technology in achieving a more efficient justice delivery system. He stressed that combining mediation with technological tools, including AI, could significantly reduce pendency and contribute to the vision of a "Viksit Bharat," while maintaining that human intelligence must remain central to decision-making.

The conclave also witnessed discussions on reforming legal education, curbing excessive reliance on technology among youth, and encouraging Indian law firms to adopt global best practices. Experts collectively emphasised that mediation, technological integration, and improved legal training will be key pillars in building a more accessible, affordable, and future-ready justice system.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who has been through a long court case, this is refreshing to hear. The system is intimidating and expensive for common people. If mediation can resolve family disputes faster and with less bitterness, it should be promoted aggressively. Hope this isn't just talk.
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Vikram M
His point about arbitration is spot on! It was supposed to be the saviour but has become another costly, delayed process. Lawyers have commercialised it. We need genuine reform, not just new names for old problems. Global outlook is good, but fix the basics at home first.
R
Rohit P
Technology is a double-edged sword indeed. AI can help sort cases, but the final judgment needs human wisdom and understanding of Indian context. Also, legal education needs a complete overhaul - too theoretical, not enough practical training.
P
Priya S
Constructive criticism is the need of the hour. But will the legal fraternity actually listen? Often, any suggestion for change is met with resistance. Hope this speech leads to real action. 'Justice to All Accessible and Affordable' should be more than just a theme for a conclave.
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Michael C
A balanced and thoughtful perspective. The call for a global outlook for Indian law firms is crucial in today's interconnected world. However, the focus must remain on ensuring the common citizen gets timely justice. That's the real measure of a strong system.

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