From Courtrooms To Clicks: Online Dispute Resolution And The Future Of Accessible Justice In India

Written by:  Aarushi Aggarwal, LLM, School of Law, IILM University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Published on: 24^th February 2026

Abstract

The justice delivery system in India has been facing challenges such as judicial delays, rising litigation costs, and limited access to justice, especially in rural and disadvantaged sections of society. Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) has been identified as a technology-based platform that has the potential to revolutionise dispute resolution processes by making them faster, more affordable, and accessible. This paper will discuss the development, structure, and potential of ODR in India, specifically its application in improving access to justice. The paper will also discuss how the need for access to justice in India has led to the development of technology-based platforms for dispute resolution, shifting focus from grassroots justice mechanisms such as Lok Adalats and legal aid services to technology-based platforms. The paper will analyse the benefits of ODR, including efficiency, convenience, flexibility, and unloading courts, while also discussing the challenges of implementing ODR, including digital literacy, infrastructure, enforceability, and data security. The paper will conclude by suggesting improvements to the ODR system in India and will also discuss the potential for developing a globally interoperable digital dispute resolution system.

Keywords - Access to Justice, Digital Justice Delivery, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Legal Technology in India, E-Courts and Virtual Hearings, Grassroots Justice Mechanisms

article 5.pdf

Download PDF • 259KB

Volume 2 | Issue 3