Question

In the absence of an agreement between the parties, the arbitration proceedings are said to have commenced under Section 21 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996:

• A. on the date of appointment of arbitrator
• B. on the date the arbitration agreement is signed
• C. on the date the request for reference is received by the respondent
• D. on the date the arbitral tribunal issues notice

Hint:

Section 21 → Commencement = date of receipt of arbitration request by respondent.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Section 21.
Arbitration commences when the respondent receives the request to refer disputes to arbitration—unless parties agreed otherwise.
Step 2: Importance.
This date determines limitation and procedural timelines.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus proceedings commence when the respondent receives the request.