Arbitrator Involved In Another Dispute Between Same Parties Is Not Automatically Disqualified: Karnataka High Court

In a recent ruling, the Karnataka High Court held that an arbitrator involved in another dispute between the same parties is not automatically disqualified. The court emphasized that disqualification depends on the nature of the earlier dispute and its relation to the ongoing arbitration. It highlighted the principle of natural justice and fairness, suggesting that mere involvement in another case doesn't inherently bias the arbitrator. This decision reaffirms the need for contextual scrutiny before concluding on arbitrator disqualification based on prior engagements with the parties.