The Evolution Of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) In India: Opportunities And Legal Challenges
- IJLLR Journal
- May 30
- 1 min read
Rama Dutt, Assistant Professor, Harlal School of Law, Greater Noida
ABSTRACT
This paper explores the evolution, current framework, and future potential of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) in India. It examines how ODR has emerged as a significant legal innovation amid growing judicial pendency, digital governance reforms, and the COVID-19-induced acceleration of virtual legal processes. The study traces the historical development of ODR from the digitization of Lok Adalats to the rise of private platforms such as Sama and Presolv360, along with government initiatives led by NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Law and Justice. It evaluates the legal and regulatory landscape, highlighting supportive provisions in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act 1996, the Information Technology Act 2000, and recent legislative developments like the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023. While acknowledging the benefits of ODR in terms of cost-efficiency, accessibility, and scalability, the paper critically analyzes challenges related to data privacy, enforceability, standardization, and professional resistance. Through comparative analysis with jurisdictions like the UK, Singapore, and the EU, it offers recommendations for comprehensive legal reforms, capacity building, and public-private collaboration to mainstream ODR in India's justice delivery ecosystem.
