[S.16 Arbitration Act] Jurisdiction Of Tribunal Cannot Be Challenged After Submission Of Defence: Allahabad High Court

The Allahabad High Court ruled on a matter involving the jurisdiction of an arbitral tribunal under Section 16 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. The case concerned a dispute over the jurisdiction of the tribunal to hear a matter. The petitioner contended that the tribunal lacked jurisdiction and sought to challenge its authority to proceed with the arbitration. The court, after reviewing the legal provisions, clarified that the tribunal has the power to decide on its jurisdiction and determine whether it can entertain the case. This judgment reinforces the principle that arbitral tribunals have the autonomy to rule on their jurisdiction and ensures that procedural matters are addressed promptly to avoid unnecessary delays.