Delhi High Court Summons Counselling Centre In-Charge For Failing To Translate Contents Of Settlement In Vernacular Language

The Delhi High Court summoned the in-charge of the counselling centre at Karkardooma Courts for failing to translate the contents of a settlement agreement into the vernacular language understood by the complainant. The case arose from a matrimonial dispute where the wife filed an FIR against her husband and his family. The complainant claimed that she was unaware of the contents of the mediation report, as it was written in English, and no translation was provided. The court emphasized that while English is the official language for court proceedings, it is the duty of the concerned authority to ensure appropriate translation for parties not well-versed in the language. The court directed the in-charge to file an affidavit explaining why the necessary steps were not taken and to be present at the next hearing. The judgment highlights the importance of ensuring that parties fully understand settlement agreements in mediation.