The Arbitration and Conciliation Act (India)

The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, is an Indian law that provides a legal framework for resolving disputes outside traditional courts through arbitration and conciliation. Arbitration involves private parties agreeing to have a neutral arbitrator decide their dispute, often more quickly and flexibly than court proceedings. Conciliation is a process where a neutral third party helps the parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The Act sets out procedures for conducting these processes, ensuring they are fair, efficient, and enforceable. It promotes alternative dispute resolution to reduce the burden on courts and offers a more flexible way to settle disputes privately.