Substantive Objections On Validity Or Existence Of Arbitration Agreement Can Be Adjudicated By Tribunal U/S 16 Of Act: Bombay HC

The Bombay High Court ruled that substantive objections regarding the validity and existence of an arbitration agreement can be adjudicated by the tribunal under Section 16 of the Arbitration Act. The case clarified that the tribunal is competent to decide on the validity of the arbitration agreement even before proceeding with the main arbitration process. This ruling strengthens the position of tribunals in managing disputes related to arbitration agreements and ensures that issues concerning their validity are settled before arbitration proceedings move forward.