The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Society of West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences recently hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion on the theme “ADR in India at a Crossroads: Why Are Governments Removing Arbitration Clauses While Pushing for Institutional Reform?”. The panel discussion was held on July 19, 2025. The panel discussion was organised in collaboration with MediateGuru and the Centre for Alternate Dispute Resolution, Jindal Global Law School bringing together leading voices in the field of dispute resolution for a nuanced discussion on the evolving landscape of arbitration and ADR in India.
The panel discussion featured the following distinguished experts:
Ms. Mehak Oberoi – Legal Head (Hydro – APAC), GE Vernova in Asia.
Mr. Robin Ratnakar David – FCIArb, FPD, FICA (Advocate and Arbitrator).
Mr. Karan Kanwal – Deputy Registrar, India International Arbitration Centre (IIAC).
Prof. Akash Gupta – Associate Professor, Jindal Global Law School.
Ms. Vishrutyi Sahni – Principal Associate (Disputes), JSA, Advocates & Solicitors.
The discussion focussed on the paradoxical shift in government policy to remove arbitration clauses from government contracts, while promoting institutional arbitration through proposing recent amendments to Indian law. The panelists offered diverse perspectives on the implications of this shift, examining its impact on investor confidence, dispute efficiency, and India’s goal of becoming a global hub for institutional arbitration. The discussion covered issues like the role of trust and enforceability of ADR mechanisms, challenges faced by institutional arbitration centers, balance between public interest and party autonomy, and comparative insights from international arbitration practices.
The session saw enthusiastic participation from students, academicians, and professionals from across the country. The session was followed by a question-answer session which reflected deep engagement and curiosity about the future of ADR reforms in India. The ADR Society extends its sincere gratitude to the panelists and collaborators for sharing their invaluable insights and look forward to hosting more such panel discussions on the intersection of law, policy, and practice.