Community Mediation Training Strengthens Grassroots Access to Justice

The Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA) organised a one-day state-level community mediation training for community mediators at the DPDB Conference Hall, Kohima, on August 14, 2026. In his keynote address, NSLSA Member Secretary Neiko Akami highlighted the importance of legal awareness, free legal aid and accessible justice, particularly for people from disadvantaged backgrounds. He said Legal Services Authorities provide assistance in understanding legal rights, preparing documents and accessing legal remedies, with Front Offices operating in all 11 districts. Akami also highlighted the growing number of drug-related cases in the state and the burden on the justice system, noting that 4,635 cases remained pending. He stressed the importance of alternative dispute resolution, including Lok Adalats, which have settled more than 600 cases during the year. The training focused on equipping community leaders to handle minor disputes through quicker, amicable and non-adversarial mediation while referring matters requiring judicial intervention to the courts. Technical sessions covered the mediation process, communication skills, cultural sensitivity, ethics, documentation and legal referrals. The programme also highlighted community intervention and legal support for people affected by human-wildlife conflict. A total of 15 community leaders from Kohima, Dimapur, Phek, Wokha and Mokokchung districts received certificates of completion.