Dispute Resolution Councils (DRC), an Alternate Source for Conflict Resolution

The latest show of Sabawoon Ranra (Light) discussed the theme of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism in Khyber Pakhtunkwa (KP) with the introduction of DRC as an alternate source for conflict resolution.

The guest speakers, Sabir Khan, a lawyer and Salim Khan, a member of DRC, were of the opinion that delays in civil and criminal cases, and convoluted procedures in existing judicial system, are against the general public interest. They have become chronic in Pakistan and it not only causes frustration among general public but also hampers socio-economic development. Sabir Khan, while appreciating the initiative of DRCs, added that they are a form ADR mechanism which refers to the resolution of conflicts outside the court room.

Currently 41 DRCs are functional in 24 districts of KP, with 14,000 cases resolved since 2015. Salim Khan, added that DRCs are a low cost system of conflict resolution handling petty issues, therefore gradually reducing the burden on courts. However, he suggested that a systematic and rigorous awareness campaign about this system can be beneficial for the general public.

A report was also aired to share the point of view of different beneficiaries who really appreciated the initiative and termed it as a successful step for easy access to justice.

Two callers expressed their positive views regarding DRCs.

AboutSabawoon
Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) since 2011. It began as a counter-radicalization, strategic communications program, designed to highlight and promote the fundamental governance values such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry, social cohesion.

The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM.

On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues with an input from government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Simay Jaaj gives an overview of the top stories from KP and FATA regions. Jwandai Jazbey airs on Wednesday and deals with issues of relevance to, and significance for, youth, students and women. Socio-cultural affairs are discussed in Ranra on Thursday.