CCADR

About the Initiative

ADR O’ Clock is CCADR’s student-led discussion series, a forum in which the student community of CNLU engages with contemporary, ongoing, and emerging topics in the field of dispute resolution. ADR O’Clock is driven by the students themselves, reflecting a pedagogical philosophy that values student voice, independent inquiry, and peer-to-peer learning alongside expert instruction.

The format of ADR O’Clock is designed to be dynamic, participatory, and intellectually provocative. Student participants research and present on real-world disputes and ADR-related controversies, explore competing legal arguments, and engage in structured discussion that sharpens their analytical and advocacy skills.

Topics Explored

Sessions under ADR O’Clock have spanned a wide range of contemporary issues, including:

• The enforceability of multi-tiered dispute resolution clauses in Indian courts and arbitral tribunals
• The implications of the Mediation Act, 2023, for the institutional mediation landscape in India
• The use of emergency arbitration provisions under institutional rules and their recognition under Indian law
• The treatment of third-party funding in international arbitration and its regulatory dimensions in India
• The growing interface between artificial intelligence and dispute resolution, including ODR platforms, algorithmic decision-making, and the prospects for AI-assisted arbitration
• Investment treaty arbitration and India’s evolving posture towards bilateral investment treaties and investor-state dispute settlement

Structure and Format of Sessions

Through this initiative, the Centre shall host curated sessions two to three times each month, conducting Mock Mediation, Negotiation, and Client Counselling exercises. Students from all batches can participate in these sessions. Each session will bring together the best of both worlds: formal presentations offering insights into foundational principles, paired with informal discussions to foster open dialogue and peer-to-peer learning. Additionally, informal discussion sessions will be held on various aspects of dispute resolution, along with sharing opportunities in this field.

Objectives and Vision

ADR O’Clock aspires to acquaint students with the diverse formats that define national and international ADR competitions, sharpening strategic preparation and evaluative understanding, thereby strengthening the University’s standing on competitive platforms. Equally, the initiative seeks to instil in every participant a refined and holistic understanding of dispute resolution — an asset that will serve them well throughout their professional journeys. All students, irrespective of prior exposure to the field, are cordially invited to be part of this enriching endeavour. Students are requested to join the designated group for the schedule, venue, and other relevant information.