“Arbitration Becoming Rich Man’s Litigation”: Justice Dhulia Flags Concerns

Supreme Court judge Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia has remarked that arbitration in India is turning into “a rich man’s litigation,” raising doubts over its accessibility and effectiveness as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism.

Speaking at a symposium, he questioned whether arbitration genuinely delivers speedy justice, citing frequent delays, particularly in arbitrator appointments, and excessive court interference.

Justice Dhulia highlighted the Centre’s recent move to restrict arbitration in smaller contracts as a reflection of dissatisfaction with the system. He noted that ad hoc arbitration still dominates in India, unlike global practices. He called for cultural and institutional reforms to make India a true arbitration hub.