Answer:

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) refers to different modes of resolving legal disputes, in addition to ordinary courts. These modes are ensured by legal provisions such as Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 and The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. The various modes of Alternate Dispute Redressal mechanisms in India are:

♤ Arbitration: A third party reviews the evidence of the case and imposes a decision that is legally binding on both sides and enforceable with limited rights of review and appeal. It may be mandatory or voluntary as per the contract.

♤ Mediation: A neutral third party assists the parties in amicably resolving their disputes using specified communication and negotiation techniques. The mediator only acts as a facilitator to reach a negotiated settlement and he makes no decisions and does not impose his view of what a fair settlement should be.

♤ Conciliation: A voluntary process whereby the parties to a dispute use a conciliator, who meets with the parties separately in order to resolve their differences by lowering tensions, improving communications, exploring potential solutions and bring about a negotiated settlement.

♤ Lok Adalat: They are constituted under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. It is a form of a public conciliation, presided over by 2 or 3 people who are judges or

advocates with experience. They have been given powers of a civil court up to a limited extent.

♤ Nayaya Panchayats: These village courts are guided by local traditions, culture and behavioural patterns of the village community and thus instill confidence in the administration of justice. Pecuniary claims of upto Rs. 200 may be taken. Its criminal jurisdiction extends to minor cases of Negligence, trespass, nuisance etc. Emphasis is laid on conciliation.