Mumbai: In a significant step toward promoting non-adversarial justice and honouring a towering figure in Indian jurisprudence, BITS Law School, Mumbai, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Ahmadi Foundation to institute the Justice A.M. Ahmadi Gold Medal for Excellence in Alternative Dispute Resolution.
This annual award, open to graduating students from the B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) and B.B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) programmes at BITS Law School, will be conferred upon a student who has not only excelled in academic pursuits related to ADR, mediation, and allied courses but also personifies the values upheld by Justice Ahmadi — a commitment to timely, humane, and accessible justice.
The Gold Medal commemorates the enduring contributions of Justice Aziz Mushabber Ahmadi, the 26th Chief Justice of India (1994–1997), who was widely respected for his fearless judgments, defense of minority rights, and reform-oriented approach to the Indian legal system. Notably, Justice Ahmadi played a pivotal role in mainstreaming ADR mechanisms in India, including the introduction of Section 89 of the Civil Procedure Code, which gave formal recognition to mediation as a viable alternative to litigation.
Speaking at the MoU signing, Prof. (Dr.) Ashish Bharadwaj, Founding Dean of BITS Law School, remarked:
“This MoU is more than just a collaboration — it’s a tribute to Justice Ahmadi’s legacy and a pledge to instill his ideals in the next generation of legal professionals. Through this partnership, we aim not only to award a Gold Medal but also to co-create opportunities for students to engage in research, short courses on landmark judgments, and impactful legal aid initiatives.”
Insiyah Vahanvaty, Trustee of The Ahmadi Foundation and author of The Fearless Judge, added:
“Justice Ahmadi believed that justice must be both accessible and efficient. He was instrumental in advancing ADR in India, viewing it as essential for an inclusive and responsive legal system. We are deeply grateful to BITS Law School for carrying forward this vision through this meaningful honour.”
Justice Ahmadi’s far-reaching legacy includes landmark judgments in constitutional and civil law, the 1994 Ahmadi Committee Report on legal education reform, and his unwavering support for Lok Adalats and mediation — all of which have deeply influenced the structural evolution of India’s justice system, culminating in progressive reforms such as the Mediation Act, 2023.
The collaboration not only celebrates a monumental legacy but also signals BITS Law School’s commitment to shaping socially conscious, reform-minded legal professionals.
