Arbitrator pass an award without taking the evidence of one of the parties on record - would result in violation of the principles of natural justice - award would be set aside.

Whether the arbitrator could pass an award without taking the evidence of one of the parties on record?

Narinder Singh v. Union of India (Judgment dated 11.18.2021 in Civil Appeal 6734/2021)

The Supreme Court held that unnecessary hurry and haste by the arbitrator which results in the deprivation of a party’s right to produce evidence and cross-examine the witness of the other party, would result in violation of the principles of natural justice and Section 18, 24 and 25 of the Arbitration Act. Such an award would be set aside under Section 34(2)(a)(iii).