Arbitrator’s Decision on Evidence is Final, Courts Can’t Re-Evaluate Evidence : Delhi High Court

The Delhi HC ruled that arbitrators have the final say on evidence, and courts cannot re-evaluate it under Section 34 of the Arbitration & Conciliation Act, 1996.

A dispute arose over unpaid bills related to a transport service agreement. The respondent took the dispute to arbitration, and the arbitrator decided in its favor.

The appellant challenged the decision under Section 34, claiming the arbitrator used improper evidence that violated the Indian Evidence Act, of 1872. The Commercial Court rejected this plea, leading to an appeal under Section 37.

The HC rejected the appeal, confirming that arbitrators don’t have to follow the Evidence Act and that courts can’t review the evidence.