Chandigarh: Taking suo motu cognizance of the absence of any kind of community mediation, the Punjab and Haryana high court has hinted at roping in Khap panchayats — extremely influential in rural areas — for resolving disputes at the grassroots level. Chief Justice Sheel Nagu has ordered that the matter be taken up for adjudication on the judicial side..The issue will be taken up by an appropriate bench as a PIL when the HC opens on Tuesday after a month-long summer break.The order note from the CJ’s office says: “In every society, there may be some disputes between groups or communities. Through community mediation programs, the conflict can be settled….” The CJ further observed that “despite being highly effective in delivering inexpensive and speedy resolution of disputes at the grassroots level, community mediation has not been enforced so far.” The CJ’s office had referred his note for further adjudication on June 20.The Mediation Act 2023 specifically provides for community mediation, which holds significant potential for resolving interpersonal disputes, such as those between neighbours, families, and communities. These sometimes lead to long-standing tensions and even violence, and have the potential of destabilising the social fabric of the community. Through community mediation, such disputes are resolved with the help of socially influential people, enabling all parties to reach an amicable solution.Khap Panchayats or social groups are have been maintaining social harmony through socially accepted diktats, and various scholars have recognised their role in the eradication of several social evils in villages.What Can Be DecidedAny dispute likely to affect peace, harmony, and tranquility among residents or families or any area or locality may be settled through community mediation with the prior mutual consent of parties.
