
Summary: Rajuram Sawaji Purohit is in a legal tussle with The Shandar Interior Private Limited over a security deposit. The court has appointed a neutral person to settle the dispute, even though there are ongoing appeals.
Back in 2011, Rajuram Sawaji Purohit, who runs Mactec Realtors & Developers, made a deal with The Shandar Interior Private Limited. He paid a security deposit of ₹51,38,000 for purchasing leftover materials. Fast forward, and this deposit is now at the center of a legal battle.
The first attempt to resolve the issue didn't go well for Rajuram. The group that was supposed to decide on the matter said his claims were too late and dismissed them. But Rajuram wasn't ready to give up. He challenged this decision in court, and on February 7, 2024, the court canceled the group's decision, giving him another chance.
"Rajuram would have to start the arbitration process all over again for all the issues." - Court Order
Rajuram filed for a new arbitration process. He believes the agreement is still good and wants the security deposit back. His lawyer, Mr. Khandeparkar, argues that even with an ongoing appeal, starting fresh arbitration is allowed.
On the other side, Shandar's lawyer, Mr. Sheelang Shah, isn't happy. He argues that there shouldn't be multiple rounds of dealing with the same issue. He thinks the claim is too late and wants the case dismissed, stating the ongoing appeal should be resolved first.
Judge Gautam A. Ankhad decided to appoint a neutral person to resolve the dispute. He noted that the court's role is limited to checking if an agreement to arbitrate exists, not to dig into the details of the case.
"All other issues must be taken up before the Arbitral Tribunal." - Court Decision
The court appointed Mr. Anish S. Karande as the only arbitrator to handle the case. Both parties are to present their issues before him in Mumbai. The arbitrator will decide on the fees and how the arbitration will proceed.
This case highlights the complexities of arbitration and the legal system's efforts to ensure fair play.