In Brief
A petitioner sought extension of time for an arbitrator (Divisional Commissioner) to conclude arbitral proceedings regarding land acquisition compensation under the National Highways Act, 1956. The arbitrator could not complete the proceedings within the mandated 12 months due to the COVID-19 lockdown. The Supreme Court held that delays caused by circumstances beyond the arbitrator's control justify time extension under s. 29A(5) of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. The petition was allowed and an additional six months granted to the arbitrator to deliver the award.
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