During the inauguration of a new Arbitration Centre in Kerala, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal made a compelling reference to Indian mythology, stating that Lord Krishna was the first arbitrator in history. This statement, rooted in the cultural and religious heritage of India, draws parallels between ancient traditions and modern legal practices, highlighting the timeless relevance of arbitration as a means of dispute resolution.
Context of the Statement
The comment was made by Arjun Ram Meghwal, who holds the position of Union Minister of Law and Justice, during the launch of an Arbitration Centre in Kerala. Arbitration is a key component of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, which are increasingly being promoted in India to address the backlog of cases in courts and provide quicker, more efficient justice.
Meghwal’s reference to Lord Krishna as the “first arbitrator” is drawn from the epic Mahabharata, where Krishna played a crucial role in mediating and advising the Pandavas and Kauravas before the great battle of Kurukshetra. Krishna’s efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully, despite ultimately leading to war, are seen as an early example of arbitration and diplomacy.
Significance of the Reference
- Cultural Resonance: By invoking Lord Krishna, Meghwal connects the modern legal practice of arbitration with India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This reference emphasizes that the concept of resolving disputes through dialogue and mediation is deeply embedded in Indian tradition.
- Promotion of Arbitration: The statement aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote arbitration as a viable and effective alternative to litigation. By citing a revered figure like Krishna, Meghwal underscores the legitimacy and historical roots of arbitration in Indian society.
- Symbol of Justice and Fairness: Krishna’s role as an arbitrator in the Mahabharata symbolizes justice, wisdom, and fairness. By drawing this parallel, Meghwal suggests that modern arbitration should be guided by these same principles, ensuring that it is a just and equitable process.
- Encouragement for ADR Mechanisms: The reference serves as an encouragement for the legal community to embrace ADR mechanisms like arbitration, mediation, and conciliation. These methods are crucial for reducing the burden on the judiciary and providing timely justice to disputing parties.
Implications for the Legal Community
The establishment of the Arbitration Centre in Kerala, coupled with Meghwal’s remarks, carries several implications:
- Enhancing ADR Infrastructure: The launch of the Arbitration Centre represents a significant step in enhancing the infrastructure for ADR in India. It provides a dedicated space for arbitration proceedings, which can lead to more efficient resolution of commercial and civil disputes.
- Raising Awareness: Meghwal’s reference to Lord Krishna as an arbitrator can help raise awareness about the importance of ADR mechanisms in the legal community and among the general public. It emphasizes that arbitration is not only a modern legal tool but also a practice rooted in ancient wisdom.
- Promoting Legal Reforms: The government’s focus on arbitration as a means of dispute resolution reflects broader legal reforms aimed at making the justice system more accessible and effective. This includes legislative changes and the promotion of arbitration-friendly policies.
- Encouraging Legal Practitioners: Legal practitioners may feel encouraged to specialize in ADR practices, contributing to a more robust and diversified legal system. The emphasis on arbitration can also lead to increased training and education in this area.
Conclusion
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal’s statement that “Lord Krishna was the first arbitrator” during the launch of an Arbitration Centre in Kerala highlights the deep cultural roots of arbitration in India. By linking this modern legal practice to ancient traditions, Meghwal reinforces the value of arbitration as a fair and effective means of resolving disputes. The establishment of the Arbitration Centre is a step forward in promoting ADR mechanisms, which are essential for easing the burden on the judiciary and ensuring timely justice. As India continues to develop its ADR infrastructure, such references to cultural heritage may help garner broader support and understanding of the importance of these legal practices.