Now Reading: Former SC judge challenges Rajasthan HC criticism of arbitral tribunal
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Former SC judge challenges Rajasthan HC criticism of arbitral tribunal
Former Supreme Court judge Justice Deepak Verma and two retired High Court judges have moved the Supreme Court against a Rajasthan High Court order criticising their arbitral tribunal as “lethargic” and reducing…
The Story in Brief
Former Supreme Court judge Justice Deepak Verma and two retired High Court judges have moved the Supreme Court against a Rajasthan High Court order criticising their arbitral tribunal as “lethargic” and reducing fees for delays. The matter is listed before Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana.
The dispute involves HCL Infosystems and three Rajasthan power distribution companies over 2009 contracts. The High Court said the arbitration had exceeded statutory timelines, with more than 160 sittings and costs nearing Rs. 13 crore. It directed day-to-day hearings in Jaipur from 31 May 2026 and completion within 45 days. The tribunal had cited technical complexity, 22 witnesses, extensive records and Covid-19 disruptions.
The Indian Opinion
The case should not be reduced to a clash between judicial criticism and tribunal dignity. Long arbitrations impose real costs, but complex records and witness evidence can require time. The Rs. 7.5 lakh per-session fee and nearly Rs. 13 crore expenditure make the High Court’s concern understandable, while the tribunal’s explanation also deserves a proper hearing. The Supreme Court’s approach to fee reductions and the 45-day completion direction will be the concrete test.
Source: livelaw.in
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
