The Madhya Pradesh High Court held that the word “may” in an arbitration clause does not make arbitration optional. Justice Deepak Khot ruled that parties’ intention must be examined from the agreement as a whole, allowing appointment of an arbitrator under Section 11(6).
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant highlighted the rising significance of mediation in commercial dispute resolution, noting that international arbitration increasingly faces delays and procedural complexities. He stressed that mediation should be regarded not merely as an alternative mechanism but as an essential pillar of modern justice systems.
The Supreme Court agreed to consider Reliance Industries Limited’s fresh request for conciliation in the Krishna-Godavari Basin gas migration dispute with the Central government, observing that an amicable settlement would be welcomed and the appeal could be disposed of if both sides successfully resolve the matter.
India’s arbitration system has grown significantly, but Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said major hurdles still exist, especially in building trust, strengthening institutions, and ensuring a continuous pool of skilled arbitration professionals to support the country’s evolving dispute resolution framework.
