Party Can't Evade Two-Tier Arbitration By Questioning Authority Of Appellate Tribunal To Dismiss Appeal On Grounds Of Limitation: Madras HC

The Madras High Court has ruled that a "petitioner cannot evade two-tier arbitration stating not given opportunity to file condone delay application by appellate tribunal." This decision emphasizes that parties must fully utilize the prescribed dispute resolution mechanisms. If an arbitration agreement provides for a two-tier process (e.g., initial arbitration followed by an appeal to an appellate tribunal), a party cannot bypass it by claiming lack of opportunity to file a delay condonation application. The ruling promotes adherence to contractual dispute resolution clauses.