SRINAGAR, AUGUST 21 :
The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has honoured retired District Judge Mohammad Ashraf Malik with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his valuable contribution, dedicated participation and commendable efforts towards the successful conduct of “Samadhan Samaroh–2026.”
The appreciation certificate was presented by Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Sanjeev Kumar, in the presence of Justice Sanjay Dhar, Justice Rahul Bharti, Justice Mohammad Yousuf Wani and Justice Shahzad Azeem.
The honour recognises Malik’s active association with the Supreme Court’s SAMADHAN SAMAROH initiative, a Pre-Lok Adalat and alternative dispute-resolution programme aimed at encouraging parties to settle disputes through mediation and other amicable mechanisms.
According to the Certificate of Appreciation, Malik was acknowledged for his “valuable contribution, dedicated participation and commendable efforts” in advancing the objectives of mediated adjudication and facilitating the peaceful and harmonious resolution of disputes.
His contribution assumes significance in view of the growing emphasis on mediation, conciliation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as effective means of reducing prolonged litigation and providing litigants with faster and mutually acceptable settlements.
The initiative seeks to provide disputing parties with an opportunity to resolve their cases amicably, efficiently and expeditiously, thereby reducing the burden on conventional courts while strengthening access to justice.
The recognition of Mohammad Ashraf Malik also highlights the important role played by experienced judicial officers in promoting a culture of settlement, dialogue and consensus-based dispute resolution.
The High Court’s appreciation reflects the importance being attached to initiatives that encourage litigants to explore alternative avenues for resolving disputes and contribute towards making the justice-delivery system more accessible, efficient and settlement-oriented.
The honour is being viewed as recognition of Malik’s continued commitment to the principles of justice, mediation and harmonious dispute resolution even after his retirement from judicial service.(KNC)