Delhi High Court Rules Word “Seat” Not Mandatory to Determine Jurisdiction Under Arbitration Clauses

The Delhi High Court has ruled that the absence of the word “seat” in an arbitration agreement does not negate the exclusive jurisdiction of courts designated by the parties.

The court emphasised that the intent of the agreement, conduct of parties, and contextual factors determine jurisdictional authority, not mere terminology.

The court prevents technical objections from undermining arbitration proceedings and ensures clarity in jurisdictional disputes.