MADHU Vs. GENERAL MANAGER NORTHERN RAILWAY

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This petition has been filed under Section 11 (2), (4) and (6) of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 for appointment of an arbitrator. It is contended that the petitioner was awarded certain repair work by the respondent by an agreement no.09/2004-05 and disputes have arisen on account of non-payment of bills by the respondent. The petitioner has placed reliance on the arbitration clause contained in clause 64 in the general conditions of contract, 1999 to contend that in view of the disputes between the parties, this court may appoint an arbitrator. So far as the notice which the petitioner would be required to give to the respondent is concerned, it is submitted that the petitioner sent a legal notice dated 13th January, 2006 invoking the arbitration clause and appointment of an arbitrator. This petition has been filed on the plea that the respondent has failed to appoint an arbitrator despite the request made to the respondent.

(2.) In the reply which has been filed by the respondent, it has been contended that the petitioner has failed to comply with the requirements of clause 64 of the General Conditions of Contract, 1999. It is submitted that no notice of appointment has been served by the respondent in terms thereof. My attention has been drawn to clause 64 1 (i) which requires the contractor to demand in writing that disputes or differences be recommended to the arbitration after 120 days but within 180 days of presenting his final claim. It is further stipulated in clause 64 that the demand for arbitration shall specify the matters which are in question or subject of disputes or differences as also the grant of claim item wise. The arbitration agreement stipulated that only such disputes or differences in respect of party made a specific demand for reference to arbitration together with counter claims or set offs shall be referred to arbitration. It is necessary to consider the relevant portion of Clause 64 of the General Conditions of the Contract which reads thus :- "Clause 64(1)(i) :

(3.) I therefore find that the petitioner has failed to comply with the stipulation of clause 64 of the General Conditions of Contract, 1999. This petition is consequently dismissed. The petitioner shall be at liberty to approach the respondent in terms of Clause 64 aforenoticed for appointment of the Arbitrator and upon failure to do so, would be at liberty to seek appointment of the Arbitrator by this court.