ODR IN INDIA: THE FUTURE OF JUSTICE DELIVERY

With over five crore pending cases burdening the Indian judicial system, the need for efficient and accessible dispute resolution mechanisms has become increasingly urgent. This blog examines Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) as a transformative solution that integrates technology with traditional Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods. It highlights how ODR enables faster, cost-effective, and geographically flexible dispute resolution, supported by judicial recognition and policy initiatives such as the NITI Aayog’s ODR Policy Plan. The paper further explores various forms of ODR, including online negotiation, arbitration, mediation, and conciliation, along with their advantages in improving access to justice. However, challenges such as the digital divide, lack of public awareness, cybersecurity concerns, and absence of a dedicated legal framework remain significant barriers. The study concludes that with improved digital infrastructure, legal clarity, and awareness, ODR has the potential to revolutionize justice delivery in India by making it more inclusive, efficient, and responsive to contemporary needs.