Alternate dispute redressal mechanism important: Sabharwal

Kochi, Nov 5 (UNI) Chief Justice of India Y K Sabharwal today stressed the importance of an Alternate Dispute Resolution mechanism to clear back-log of cases in various courts.

Addressing a gathering at the valedictory function of the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Kerala High Court here, Justice Sabharwal said by re-arranging and applying new technologies, an alternate dispute redressal mechanism through mediation, arbitration and reconciliation would help in dispensing timely justice to the aggrieved parties.

He said the resolution mechanism, the 'sheet anchor' of the judicial system, could be implemented only with the support of the Bar members.

''Around 10,00,000 pending cases were in subordinate courts in the state and this was a serious concern,'' he said, adding that the three pillars of democracy -- executive, legislature and judiciary should work in unison.

He also urged the state government to chalk out a policy on the lines of the Karnataka Government, to provide financial assistance to young lawyers.

''The Karnataka Government yesterday announced a package whereby a monthly payment would be made to new lawyers for some time,'' he said, assuring the state administrators that the investment in judicial fraternity was part of the development of the state.

Admitting that the judiciary system was not infallible, he said there were aberrations but they should be acknowledged and taken into consideration.

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