Supreme Court judge Justice J.K. Maheshwari said on Sunday that mediation has become an essential and effective mechanism for resolving commercial and business disputes in India, moving beyond its role as a voluntary alternative to litigation.

Speaking at a mediation conference in New Delhi, Maheshwari said mediation is increasingly being integrated into the legal system as a structured and “science-based” process that can deliver faster and more sustainable outcomes, particularly in commercial matters.

“In business disputes, prolonged litigation often worsens relationships,” he said, adding that mediation helps promote trust, communication and mutual understanding between parties.

Maheshwari stressed that neutrality and credibility of the mediator are critical for the success of the process. Referring to examples from Indian tradition, he said mediation efforts in ancient times had failed when doubts arose about the impartiality of the mediator.

The conference, held at the Constitution Club of India, brought together judges, lawyers and mediation practitioners from across the country. It was organised by Resolveify, a mediation institution.

Former Supreme Court judge Justice (Retd.) Vineet Saran said mediation was gaining importance in India’s legal framework as it not only speeds up dispute resolution but also takes into account the human aspects of conflicts.

Adesh Aggarwal, former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, urged lawyers to develop mediation skills and actively promote alternative dispute resolution alongside court proceedings.

Advocate Chirag Mittal, the organiser of the conference, said the aim was to encourage quicker, affordable and amicable settlement of disputes, especially in commercial cases.

Speakers at the event said wider use of mediation could help reduce the burden on courts while strengthening long-term business relationships and confidence in the justice system.