Interim Relief U/S 9 Of Arbitration Act Must Be Sought With 'Reasonable Expedition': Bombay High Court

The Bombay High Court has emphasized the importance of promptness in seeking interim relief under Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. The court observed that any significant delay in approaching the court for interim measures of protection or injunctions related to an ongoing or contemplated arbitration can potentially weaken the case for such relief. The rationale behind this is that a delayed application may suggest a lack of urgency or that the applicant may not have genuinely apprehended immediate and irreparable harm. Therefore, parties involved in arbitration are advised to act swiftly if they believe interim court intervention is necessary to safeguard their interests.