Courts can Extend Arbitral Tribunal’s Mandate Even After Delayed Award: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has held that courts can extend the mandate of an arbitral tribunal under Section 29A of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, even after an arbitral award is passed beyond the statutory time limit.

Setting aside the Madras High Court’s view, the Court clarified that a belated award is unenforceable, but this does not curtail the court’s power to grant an extension.

Emphasising access, affordability, and expeditious dispute resolution, the Court restored the Section 29A application and directed fresh consideration.

[Velusamy v. Indhera]