STEEMAN LTD. vs STATE OF HIMAHCAL PRADESH

The Supreme Court addressed the arbitration dispute between M/s Steeman Ltd and the Himachal Pradesh government regarding the construction of Sitla Bridge, emphasizing the applicability of Section 13(b) of the Indian Arbitration Act. The Court held that the appointment of a new arbitrator during ongoing proceedings was improper, as the original arbitrator's authority was not properly terminated. Consequently, the Court set aside the High Court's dismissal of the reference matter, allowing the arbitration process to continue as per the original agreement.