In a first, Bombay HC starts counseling centre to resolve matrimonial disputes

A first of its kind initiative among high courts across India has started at the Bombay High Court. A Pre-Litigation Counseling Centre for resolving matrimonial matters was inaugurated by the Maharashtra State Legal Services Authority (MALSA).

The centre, which will be operational thrice a week, aims to reduce litigations before they reach the court. Four psychologists, who are associated with Tata Institute of Social Science, Mumbai University and SNDT University, will hear out and try to resolve the disputes between couples. The centre was inaugurated on February 23, by Acting Chief Justice V K Tahilaramani.

The facility will be available free of cost to warring couples, who want a resolution, instead of spending huge amounts of money and time in courts. It is estimated that one matrimonial dispute gives birth to around four litigations between couples. If, couples take help from counselors, then time/money and most importantly, their marriage can be saved, said an official.

Among the many high courts, the Bombay High Court is first to start such a centre. The counseling centre aims to promote the object of providing legal aid to each and everyone to achieve and fulfill the spirit of social justice. 
The centre will operate independently and have no bearing on any cases pending or to be filed in the courts. On the day of the inauguration, around three couples, turned up for counseling. The number would increase over time, officials believe.

The centre will also cater to senior citizens, who are also roped in by warring couples into criminal prosecutions etc. Apart from the counselors, legal assistance will also be provided by the panel of lawyers as well as officers of MALSA.