Online dispute resolution is a mechanism in which information and communication technology is integrated with judicial process for justice delivery. Advantages of ODR: (1) Huge number of pendency: According to National judicial data grid, around 4.7 crore cases are pending across India. ODR can help in reducing it. (2) Accessibility: ODR increases accessibility of courts to people. Courts can be accessed from any corner of country. (3) Time saving: ODR saves time in travelling to courts. They also reduces vehicular emission.
4Transparency: The proceedings are live in which people from anywhere can watch it. (5) Digital India initiative: It increases awareness of people regarding technology. (6) Infrastructure: Issues and related to lack of infrastructure like physical buildings are resolved to some extent. (7) Alternate dispute resolution mechanism like Arbitration, mediation, Lok adalat etc. gets a fresh push. Challenges: (1) Lack of digital infrastructure: In most of lower courts infrastructure is absent. (2) Lack of funding: Funds are not sufficient to develop digital infra. (3) Data privacy and Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity attacks are also concerning, for example AIJMS infrastructure was affected by a Ransomware which halted whole health system.
4Lack of awareness about online system among masses especially rural India. (5) Status quoist attitude of many courts who are not willing to adopt to new technique. Solutions: (1) E-Courts project by Ministry of LAT. Under this website like NJDG are maintained. (2) Training to officials in Courts about new technology. (3) Awareness generator campaign. (4) Funding should be made available. (5) Strong cyber security measures by govt. agencies like CERT-IN. (6) Best practices, for example Australia, Israel etc. In the new digital world, ODR is the future and is inevitable, it is best to be prepared by implementing above reforms. ODR helps in speedy trial which is a fundamental right (Husainara Khatoon case).