Professional Documents
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R.K. Tankha Moot Respondent NLUO Team
R.K. Tankha Moot Respondent NLUO Team
Before
IN THE MATTER OF
CLAIMANT
Versus
RESPONDENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF ABBREVIATION................................................................................................V
INDEX OF AUTHORITIES..................................................................................................XI
STATEMENT OF FACTS................................................................................................XXIII
ISSUES RAISED................................................................................................................XXV
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENTS......................................................................................XXVI
ARGUMENTS ADVANCED....................................................................................................1
A. Clause 1.0 is uncertain and does not provide sufficient indication to invoke
arbitration...................................................................................................................4
ii. Alternatively, CLAIMANT did not comply with its obligation to negotiate.....4
B. Clause 1.0 does not refer to SIAC Rules but rather designates an inexistent
arbitral institution.......................................................................................................5
PROCEEDINGS......................................................................................................................8
1. THE TRIBUNAL SHALL ORDER CLAIMANT TO DISCLOSE THE THIRD PARTY FUNDING.
12
COSTS....................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................15
B. None of the Parties consented to the joinder of the Ministry to the pending
arbitration.................................................................................................................20
A. CLAIMANT’s failure to deliver the components on the fixed date breached the
obligations under Art. 30 and Art. 33 CISG.............................................................22
B. CLAIMANT’s failure to perform the contract is not exempted under Art. 79......22
b. Even if the contention is taken into account the detriment was foreseeable
for CLAIMANT...................................................................................................26
iii. The additional period of time as per Art. 47 CISG is not a mandatory
requirement..........................................................................................................28
PRAYER.........................................................................................................................XXVIII
TABLE OF ABBREVIATION
ABBREVIATION EXPANSION
% Percentage
& And
§ Section
© Copyright
¶ Paragraph
Addendum Addendum to the Agreement
Agreement Parts Supply Agreement
AIR All India Reports
AIR All India Law Report
Arb Arbitration
Art. Article
The United Nations Convention on
CISG Contracts for the International Sale of
Goods
CLAIMANT Arcebor Power Private Limited
Clause 1.0 of the Addendum to the
Clause 1.0
Agreement
Clause 11.0 Clause 11.0 of the Agreement
CLC Civil Law Cases
Journal du droit international (journal of
CLUNET
International Law)
E.C.R. European Court Reports
ECR European Court Law Report
Edn. Edition
United States District Court for the
EDNY
Eastern District of New York Law report
Et al. et alia (and others)
EWHC The High Court of Justice in London
EWHC High Court of England and Wales
F. 2d Federal Reporter, Second Series
F. 3d Federal Reporter, Third Series
F. Supp, F Supp. 2d West’s Federal Supplement
STATEMENT OF FACTS
PARTIES:
Arcebor Power Pvt. Ltd. [hereinafter to as “CLAIMANT”] incorporated under the laws of
Xanier. It is the market energy leader and has a major manufacturing unit in Xanier. It sources
its raw materials from Zorastra.
AGREEMENT:
CLAIMANT was made aware of the strategic importance of the Tullyland Power Plant. Even
the RESPONDENT stressed the need for ensuring that the delivery of the parts is made on time,
such that duration for which the power plant is closed is reduced to minimum number of
days.
ENSUING EVENTS:
On 29th December 2017, CLAIMANT in the garb of a new restructuring policy did not send the
officials for inspection. The RESPONDENT agreed to it. However, the remote inspection was
not in line with the quality expected of it.
On 20th August 2018, the CLAIMANT relying on a mere price fluctuation started demanding to
renegotiate the terms of the Agreement. In response to which, the RESPONDENT clarified that
the pricing was in line with the current market and mere fluctuations in cost shall not affect
the long term Agreement.
On 20th January 2019, even after knowing the importance of prescribed delivery date, the
CLAIMANT failed to deliver the consignment in the stipulated time period. Therefore, the
RESPONDENT had to terminate the agreement.
On 11th February 2019, the RESPONDENT came across the notice by the global arbitration
news. Wherein the managing director of Viability Finance Limited Claimed to have assumed
the costs of arbitration for Fresh grounds Lockhardt Bodinger LLP which is the firm
representing CLAIMANT. There is ambiguity regarding the information and extent of the
funding.
On 21st February 2019, moratorium was imposed on the RESPONDENT by the National
Company Law Tribunal [hereinafter referred to as the “NCLT”] of Nedista by virtue of
which the initiation or continuation of any legal proceedings including arbitration
proceedings against the RESPONDENT is prohibited.
The RESPONDENT reiterates that its termination of the Agreement was based on the
fundamental breach of the Agreement committed by the CLAIMANT.
ISSUES RAISED
ISSUE 1
WHETHER THERE IS A VALID AGREEMENT IN EXISTENCE BETWEEN THE PARTIES WHICH
REFERS THE DISPUTES TO ARBITRATION UNDER THE AEGIS OF SIAC?
ISSUE 2
WHETHER THE INSOLVENCY PROCEEDING UNDERWAY AGAINST THE RESPONDENT IN YEVADU
BARS THE JURISDICTION OF THIS TRIBUNAL?
ISSUE 3
WHETHER THE CLAIMANT IS UNDER AN OBLIGATION TO DISCLOSE ITS SOURCE OF FUNDING
FOR PURSUING THESE ARBITRATION PROCEEDINGS AND SHOULD THE TRIBUNAL ORDER
ISSUE 4
WHETHER THE MINISTRY OF POWER, GOVERNMENT OF YEVADU MAY BE JOINED AS A PARTY
TO THE PRESENT ARBITRAL PROCEEDINGS?
ISSUE 5
WHETHER THE CLAIMANT’S CONDUCT BREACHED THE AGREEMENT AND WHETHER THE
RESPONDENT WAS JUSTIFIED IN TERMINATING THE AGREEMENT?
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENTS
ISSUE 1: THERE EXISTS NO VALID AGREEMENT BETWEEN PARTIES WHICH REFERS THE
The Arbitral Tribunal derives its jurisdiction solely from an arbitration agreement.
RESPONDENT contests the existence and validity of such arbitration agreement. There exists
no unequivocal intent to arbitrate between the Parties for arbitration as the sole method of
dispute resolution. Further, even if there is a valid arbitration agreement, the dispute is not
maintainable under the aegis of SIAC. This is in light of unenforceability of the assumed to
be valid arbitration clause and incorrect reference to the SIAC Rules.
The Tribunal shall order CLAIMANT to disclose the third party funding. The RESPONDENT has
a reasonable means to believe that CLAIMANT has concluded a third party funding. Disclosure
and production of third party funding is a relevant factor for the assessment of request for
security of costs and to determine the existence of potential conflict of interest. Further,
RESPONDENT contends that the Tribunal has the power to order security for costs. The
RESPONDENT would suffer irreparable damages if the cost is not ordered and this harm would
outweigh the potential harm caused to other party. RESPONDENT has met its burden of proof
of producing the best evidence possible.
ISSUE 5: THE CLAIMANT’S CONDUCT BREACHED THE AGREEMENT AND THE RESPONDENT
IS JUSTIFIED IN TERMINATING THE AGREEMENT.
ARGUMENTS ADVANCED
[¶1.] Arcebor Power Pvt. Ltd. [hereinafter referred to as “CLAIMANT”] and Renvidora
National Power Company Ltd. [hereinafter referred to as “RESPONDENT”] entered into an
Agreement pertaining to supply of parts and components on 14 th January 2015 [hereinafter
referred to as “Agreement”]. An Addendum to the Agreement was signed on the same date
[hereinafter referred to as “Addendum”]. The arbitral tribunal derives its jurisdiction1 solely
from an arbitration agreement.2 RESPONDENT contests the existence and validity of such an
arbitration agreement under the aegis of Singapore International Arbitration Centre Rules,
2016 [hereinafter referred to as “SIAC”] on the following grounds: first, there is no
manifestation of unequivocal consent to arbitrate [1]; alternatively, the dispute cannot be
maintained under the aegis of SIAC [2].
[¶2.] The legitimacy of an arbitration agreement can only be preserved 3 if the common
intent and consent4 of the parties to arbitrate is established.5 Intent to arbitrate should be
unambiguously expressed.6 RESPONDENT submits that: first, RESPONDENT never agreed for
1 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
648.
2 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 29; Klaus Lionnet et Al., Handbook of International and National Arbitration (3rd edn.,
Richard Boorberg Verlag GmbH & Co KG 2005) 179.
3 Varady Tibor, ‘Appointing Authorities in International Commercial Arbitration’ [1988] 2 EMORY JOURNAL OF
INTERNATIONAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION 311.
4 Jan Van den berg, The New York Arbitration Convention of 1958 (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1981)
231.
5 ICC Case No. 6709 of 1991; Laboratorios Grossman S.A. v. Forest Laboratories Inc. [1968] 295 N.Y.S. 2d
756; Deutsche Hochseefischerei GmbH v. Reederei Mond Hochseefischerei Nordstern AG [1982] E.C.R. 1095;
Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999) 485;
Reinmar Wolff, New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards 1958-
Commentary (1st edn., C.H. Beck Hart Nomos Publications 2012) 85; The International Council for Commercial
Arbitration, ‘Guide on New York Convention 1958, A Handbook for Judges’ [2012] <https://www.arbitration-
icca.org/media/0/13365477041670/judges_guide_english_composite_final_revised_may_2012.pdf> accessed
on 9 January 2020; W. Laurance Craig et Al., International Chamber of Commerce Arbitration (3rd edn., Oxford
University Press 2000) 85.
6 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
485; Reinmar Wolff, New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards
1958- Commentary (1st edn., C.H. Beck Hart Nomos Publications 2012) 128; The International Council for
Commercial Arbitration, ‘Guide on New York Convention 1958, A Handbook for Judges’ [2012]
[¶3.] The parties must inform each other of their respective intentions to arbitrate. 7
Unilateral communications are not sufficient to satisfy the requirements of such exchange. 8 A
dispute resolution clause which bestows jurisdiction to the national courts along with
arbitration cannot be construed as an arbitration clause.9 This is because resolution of disputes
by arbitration must not only be parties’ rights, but also their obligations 10 to not to resort to
courts.11
[¶4.] Here, Clause 11.0 states that courts “shall have jurisdiction over any disputes under
the agreement.”12 It is submitted that Clause 11.0 provides the Parties with an option to either
opt for arbitration or litigation. CLAIMANT while raising concerns regarding Clause 11.0,
admitted that it did not refer to one single forum. 13 The intention of the Parties with respect to
final and binding nature of arbitration is absolutely essential. Clause 11.0 does not lead to any
obligation of the Parties to arbitrate but only a right as a matter of mutual choice.
[¶5.] Thus, RESPONDENT never agreed for resolution of disputes solely by arbitration.
<https://www.arbitrationicca.org/media/0/13365477041670/judges_guide_english_composite_final_revised_ma
y_2012.pdf> accessed on 9 January 2020; Joannes Robert et Al., The French Law of Arbitration (5th edn.,
Mathew Bender 1983) 134.
7 Jan Van den berg, The New York Arbitration Convention of 1958 (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1981)
231.
8 ibid.
9 Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards 1958, [“NY Convention”] Art.
II(3); United Nations Commission on International Trade Law Model Law on International Commercial
Arbitration 1985, [“Model Law”] Art. 8.
10 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 288; Wellington Associates Ltd. v. Mr. Kirit Mehta [2000] 4 SCC 272; Sudarshan
Chopra et Al. v. Company Law Board et Al. [2004] 2 Arb LR 241.
11 G. Petrochilos, Procedural law in International Arbitration (1st edn., Oxford University Press 2004) 78; Gary
B. Born, International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 1020; NY
Convention, Art. II(3); Model Law, Art. 8; Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st
edn., Kluwer Law International 1999) 648; Antje Baumann, Practitioner's Handbook on International
Commercial Arbitration (3rd edn., Oxford University Press 2000) 20; Québec Inc. v. Fafard [2004] QJ 4085.
12 Case Record, Exhibit C1, 13.
13 Case Record, Exhibit C3, 15.
[¶7.] Here, CLAIMANT vide a correspondence,19 raised concerns for further clarity in the
Agreement with respect to dispute resolution. RESPONDENT assured CLAIMANT about the
workability of the clause and offered to mitigate its concerns at a later stage.20
[¶8.] It is submitted that RESPONDENT never agreed to settle the disputes via arbitration
even at this stage. Thereafter, CLAIMANT offered to add an Addendum regarding the dispute
resolution aspect.21 Hence, RESPONDENT signed the Addendum only to provide clarity to the
arbitration limb of the forum selection clause, in case arbitration is opted by the Parties later.
Further, there was no mention of ousting the jurisdiction of the courts even in the
Addendum.22
[¶9.] Thus, the Addendum is not an agreement to arbitrate but only an extension to Clause
11.0.
14 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
446.
15 Margaret Deuter et Al., Oxford Advanced learners dictionary (9th edn., Oxford University Press 2015) 78; D.
P. Simpson, Cassell's Latin Dictionary Latin-English English-Latin (5th edn., Continuum International
Publishing Group Ltd. 2000) 29.
16 IDM Danmark, Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary (4th edn., Cambridge University Press 2013) 53.
17 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 288.
18 Alexander Jolles, Consequences of Multi-tier Arbitration Clauses: Issues of Enforcement (2nd edn., Sweet &
Maxwell 2006) 329; Oliver Krauss, ‘The Enforceability of Escalation Clauses Providing for Negotiations in
Good Faith Under English Law’ [2015] 2 MCGILL JOURNAL OF DISPUTE RESOLUTION 142 ; Craig Tevendale et
Al., ‘Mutli-tier Dispute Resolution Clauses and Arbitration’ [2015] 1 TURKISH COMMERCIAL LAW REVIEW 31.
19 Case Record, Exhibit C3, 15.
20 Case Record, Exhibit C4, 16.
21 Case Record, Exhibit C5, 17.
22 Case Record, Exhibit C2, 13.
A. CLAUSE 1.0 IS UNCERTAIN AND DOES NOT PROVIDE SUFFICIENT INDICATION TO INVOKE
ARBITRATION.
[¶11.] It is submitted that arbitration should not be allowed to proceed because primarily
Clause 1.0 is unenforceable owing to its uncertainty [i]; and alternatively, CLAIMANT did not
comply with its obligation to negotiate [ii].
[¶12.] A clause providing for negotiation before arbitration is a multi tier clause. 23 Such
clauses should contain guidance as to the quality or nature of the attempts to be made to
resolve a dispute.24 The clause is highly uncertain25 if a procedural framework for negotiation
proceedings or a time limit for the initiation of such proceedings is not provided. 26 Such a
clause lacks sufficient objective criteria to decide whether one or both parties were in
compliance of such a provision.27 Therefore, such clauses cannot be effectively interpreted 28
and are unenforceable.29
[¶13.] Here, Clause 1.0 contains no guidance as to the quality or extent of the attempts to be
made to resolve a dispute and does not provide any procedural framework or time limit for
the initiation of negotiation proceedings. Hence, it lacks sufficient objective criteria.
ii. Alternatively, CLAIMANT did not comply with its obligation to negotiate.
23 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 288.
24 Tang Chung Wah v. Grant Thornton International Ltd. [2013] 1 All ER (Comm) 1226; Alan Redfern et Al.,
Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford University Press 2004) 287.
25 Cable and Wireless v. IBM United Kingdom [2002] 2 EWHC 2059; Zechman v. Merril Lynch 742 F. Supp.
1359 [1990]; Martin Domke, Domke on Commercial Arbitration, The law of Practice of Commercial
Arbitration (1st edn., Dorothy O Callagahn 1984) 120; Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on
International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford University Press 2004) 367; Gary B. Born, International
Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 189; Philippe Fouchard et Al., International
Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999) 471; W. Laurance Craig et Al., International
Chamber of Commerce Arbitration (3rd edn., Oxford University Press 2000) 131.
26 X GmbH v. Y Sàrl [2011] 4 FCLC 46.
27Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 367.
28 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
485.
29 Walford v. Miles [1992] 2 WLR 174.
[¶16.] Here, Clause 1.0 explicitly states that “…If these discussions prove unsuccessful...will
be…”It is submitted that the peremptory nature of the negotiation proceedings is evident.
Hence, arbitration cannot be invoked without fulfilling the mandatory conditions precedent.
[¶17.] Further, CLAIMANT’s assertion that it sent emails as an attempt to negotiate 32 does not
hold water. The dispute revolves around the termination of the Agreement. However, all the
attempts at negotiation pertain to unviability of the project.
[¶18.] Thus, CLAIMANT did not comply with its obligation to negotiate.
C. CLAUSE 1.0 DOES NOT REFER TO SIAC RULES BUT RATHER DESIGNATES AN
INEXISTENT ARBITRAL INSTITUTION.
[¶19.] Courts have been reluctant to refer the parties to arbitrate under a specific arbitral
institution merely because it is the closest possible designation 33where such designation is
ambiguous or inexistent34 with regard to the name of the institution or set of arbitration rules.
Courts and arbitral tribunals have found such agreements invalid.35
[¶20.] Here, Clause 1.0 refers the dispute to “Singapore Arbitration Centre.”36 It is
submitted that referral to such institution is vague and non- existent. It renders Clause 1.0
pathological in nature, extent and scope.
[¶21.] Thus, Clause 1.0 does not refer to SIAC Rules but rather designates an inexistent
arbitral institution.
30 ICC Case No. 12739 of 2008; ICC Case No. 9977 of 2003.
31 Klaus Peter Berger, ‘Law and Practice of Escalation Clauses’ [2006] 22 ARBITRATION INTERNATIONAL 4;
Gary B. Born, International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 841.
32 Case Record, Notice of Statement of Claim, 7.
33 German Case No. 29 U 70 of 1994; Nokia Maillefer S.A. v. Mazzer [1996] 21 YICCA 687.
34 Marks 3 Zet-Ernst Marks Gmbh & Co.KG v. Presstek, Inc. [2006] 455 F.3d 7.
35 S. Ltd v. P. Gmbh [2011] 23 KCA 10113; Enercon Ltd. v. Enercon Gmbh et Al. [2014] 5 SCC 1; HKL Group
Co Ltd v. Rizq International Holdings Pte Ltd [2013] SGHCR 5; German Case No. 29 U 70 of 1994; Stefan M
Kröll et Al., Comparative International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 2003) 75;
Eugenio Minoli, Commercial Arbitration: Essays in Memoriam Eugenio Minoli (1st edn., Torinese Printing-
Publishing House, 1974) 57; Benjamin G Davis, ‘Pathological Clauses: Frédéric Eisemann’s Still Vital Criteria’
[1991] 7 JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION 365.
36 Case Record, Exhibit C2, 14.
[¶23.] Here, CLAIMANT drafted the Addendum and informed RESPONDENT about the same
on the day of signing the Agreement. 40 It is submitted that due to paucity of time,
RESPONDENT couldn’t have negotiated the terms of the Addendum. CLAIMANT has to borne
uncertainty in the procedure of negotiation and the unqualified reference to the inexistent
institution, ‘Singapore Arbitration Centre.’ Thus, ambiguities in Clause 1.0 must be
interpreted against CLAIMANT.
[¶24.] In conclusion, there is no valid agreement between the Parties which refers the dispute
to arbitration under the aegis of SIAC.
[¶26.] It is submitted that first, capacity of RESPONDENT is governed by its national laws
[A]; second, RESPONDENT is incapable to participate in the present proceedings owing to the
37 ICC Case No. 8261 of 1996; ICC Case No. 4727 of 1987; ICC Case. No. 178 of 1997; Philippe Fouchard et
Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999) 479; UNIDROIT
Principles of International Commercial Contracts 2016, [“PICC”] 4.6; Richard Garnett et Al., A Practical
Guide to International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Oceana Publications 2000) 46.
38 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
479; PICC, Art. 4.6; Sykes, ‘The Contra Proferentem Rule and the Interpretation of International Commercial
Arbitration Agreements – the Possible Uses and Misuses of a Tool for Solutions to Ambiguities’ [2004] 11
VINDOBONA JOURNAL OF COMMERCIAL LAW AND ARBITRATION 79; Larry A. Di Matteo, The Law of
International Contracting (4th edn., Kluwer Law International 2000) 202; E. Alan Farnsworth, Farnsworth on
Contracts (4th edn., Kluwer Law International 2019) 287.
39 ICC Case No. 4727 of 1987; German Case No. VIII ZR 410/12 of 2014; Mastrobuono v. Shearson Lehman
Hutton Inc. [1995] 514 U.S. 52; Stefan Vogenauer, Commentary on the UNIDROIT Principles of International
Commercial Contracts (2nd edn., Oxford University Press 2015) 20; Sykes, ‘The Contra Proferentem Rule and
the Interpretation of International Commercial Arbitration Agreements – the Possible Uses and Misuses of a
Tool for Solutions to Ambiguities’ [2004] 11 VINDOBONA JOURNAL OF COMMERCIAL LAW AND ARBITRATION
66.
40 Case Record, Exhibit C5, 17.
[¶27.] Capacity has to be interpreted in a broad sense, meaning the capability to act, the
ability to be sued before the court and the valid power of attorney. 41 The status of a
company including as to whether it is capable of participating in certain pending procedures,
is governed by the law of the place where the company is incorporated.42
[¶28.] Here, RESPONDENT has been incorporated in Yevadu. RESPONDENT has its principal
office at Tridentland inYevadu.43 It is submitted that the national laws of Yevadu are
applicable in the context of capacity.
[¶30.] It is submitted that first, moratorium imposed expressly prohibits the continuation of
any arbitration proceedings [i]; second, RESPONDENT cannot be represented if the
proceedings continue [ii].
[¶31.] Insolvency laws of Yevadu are pari materia to Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code of
India 2016 [hereinafter referred to as “IBC”].44 The mandate of IBC is that the moment an
insolvency petition is admitted, a moratorium is imposed under §13 IBC. Under §14(1)(a)
IBC,45 the adjudicating authority expressly prohibits continuation of proceedings against
41 Frank-Bernd Weigand et Al., Practitioner’s Handbook on International Arbitration (1st edn., C.H. Beck
Verlag München 2002) 231; Bühler et Al., Handbook of ICC Arbitration: Commentary, Precedents, Materials
(2nd edn., Sweet & Maxwell 2008) 109.
42 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
534; Gasque v. I.R.C. [1940] 2 K.B. 80; Julian Lew et Al., Comparative International Commercial Arbitration
(2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2003) 276; UNCTAD,‘Dispute Settlement by International Commercial
Arbitration’ [2005] < https://unctad.org/en/Docs/edmmisc232add39_en.pdf> accessed on 25 December 2019;
Andrea M Steingruber, Consent in International Arbitration (3rd edn., Oxford University Press, 2012) 319; Karl-
Heinz Böckstiegel, Public Policy and Arbitrability in Comparative Arbitration Practice and Public Policy in
Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 1987) 181; Reform of the Italian System of Private International
Law 1995, Art. 25; The Code of Private International Law of Belgium 2004, Art. 110; Switzerland's Federal
Code on Private International Law 1987, Art. 154; Civil Code of Russian Federation 1994, Art. 1202;
Deyan Draguiev, The Effect of Insolvency on Pending International Arbitration: What Is and What Should Not
Be (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2015) 542.
43 Case Record, Notice of Arbitration and Statement of Claim, 8.
44 Case Record, Procedural Order No. 1, 40.
45 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, § 14.
[¶32.] Here, the Statement of Claim was filed on 15th February 2019.48 The order of
moratorium has been pronounced by the National Company Law Tribunal, Special Bench of
Nedista [“NCLT”] on 21st February 2019.49 It is submitted that the present arbitration
proceedings initiated before the imposition of moratorium are non est in law.
[¶33.] Thus, moratorium imposed expressly prohibits the continuation of any arbitration
proceedings.
[¶34.] After the imposition of moratorium, an IRP50 takes over the management of affairs of
the CD.51 Subsequently, a RP is appointed.52 The RP represents and acts on behalf of the CD
with third parties and exercises rights for the benefit of the CD in arbitration proceedings. 53
The RP is duty bound to preserve and protect the assets of the CD.54 Thus, if on determination
of claims it is understood that the CD is liable to pay, then the award cannot be executed
during the period of moratorium.55
[¶37.] Regardless of the parties’ choice57 or the tribunal’s discretion, public policy concerns
46 K.S. Oils Ltd. v. The State Trade Corporation of India Ltd. et Al. [2018] 146 SCL 588.
47 Alchemist Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd. v. Hotel Gaudavan Pvt. Ltd. et Al. [2018] 16 SCC 94.
48 Case record, Notice of Arbitration and Statement of Claim, 9.
49 Case Record, Exhibit R2, 36.
50 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, § 16.
51 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, § 17.
52 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, § 22.
53 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, § 25(2).
54 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016, § 25(1).
55 Jharkhand Bijli Viltran Nigam Ltd. v. IVRL Ltd et Al. [2018] SCC Online 18197.
56 Case Record, Exhibit R2, 36.
57 ICC Case No. 5622 of 1988.
[¶39.] Thus, international public policy prohibits the continuance of the present proceedings.
[¶40.] Enforceability of the award is the raison d'etre [the reason for being] of the arbitration
process.62 It is submitted that the Tribunal should decline jurisdiction in light of
unenforceability of the Award because first, the arbitrator has a duty to render an enforceable
award [A]; second, the Award would be unenforceable if the present proceedings
continue[B]; third, the Tribunal should exercise its discretion to decline jurisdiction in light of
58 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
357; Gary B. Born, International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 2634; Alan
Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford University Press
2004) 204; D. Hochstrasser, ‘Choice of Law and “Foreign” Mandatory Rules in International Arbitration’ [1994]
11 JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION 57.
59 Mandataires Judiciaires Associés, in the person of Mrs. X et Al. v. International Company for Commercial
Exchanges [2010] 35 YICCA 353.
60In re U.S. Lines, Inc. [1999] 197 F.3d 631; Hays and Co. v. Merrill Lynch [1999] 885 F.2d 1149; Anirudh
Wadhwa et Al., Wadhwa Guide to Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (1st edn., Wadhwa Chambers 2019) 361;
M/S Lion Engineering Consultants v. State of M.P. & Ors. [2018] AIR 1895; Nadja Erk, Parallel Proceedings,
in International Arbitration: A Comparative European Perspective (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014)
215; Vesna Lazić, Insolvency Proceedings and Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International
1998) 432.
61 Victrix Steamship Co., S.A. v. Salen Dry Cargo A.B. [1987] 825 F.2d 709; Stefan Kroll, Arbitration and
Insolvency Proceedings (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2006) 357; Vesna Lazić, Insolvency Proceedings
and Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1998) 137; W. Laurance Craig et Al.,
International Chamber of Commerce Arbitration (3rd edn., Oxford University Press 2000) 68; Vesna Lazić,
Insolvency Proceedings and Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1998) 147; Nadja
Erk, Parallel Proceedings in International Arbitration: A Comparative European Perspective (2nd edn., Kluwer
Law International 2014) 215.
62 Yves Derains et Al., A Guide to the New ICC Rules of Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 1998)
353.
[¶42.] Here, it is submitted that the Parties reasonably expected that the award will be
enforceable. There is a duty casted upon the Tribunal to render an enforceable award.
Otherwise, the purpose of arbitration will be defeated.
[¶44.] The award is enforced at a place where the debtor company holds assets. 66 Under Art.
V NY Convention and Art. 34(2) UNCITRAL Model Law, recognition and enforcement of an
award may be refused by the enforcing states in light of their own laws. 67 If the party
furnishes that it was under some incapacity under the law applicable to it, the award may be
refused by the enforcing state.68 Further, the award may be refused enforcement on public
policy grounds, i.e. the law in force of the state,69 if the domestic law at the place of the
enforcement of the award has mandatory provisions on the effect of insolvency,70
63 Albert Jan van den Berg, New Horizons in International Commercial Arbitration and Beyond (1st edn.,
Kluwer Law International 2005) 291; William R. Spiegelberger, The Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards in
Russia: An Analysis of Relevant Treaties, Laws, and Cases (2nd edn., The American Review of International
Arbitration 2005) 262; Marcus Wang, ‘Dancing With the Dragon: What U.S. Parties Should Know About
Chinese Law When Drafting a Contractual Dispute Resolution Clause’ [2009] 309 NORTHWESTERN JOURNAL OF
INTERNATIONAL LAW AND BUSINESS 329.
64 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 343; Julian D.M. Lew, ‘The Law Applicable to the Form and Substance of the
Arbitration’ [1999] 9 ICCA CONGRESS SERIES 114; Bank Mellat v. GAA Development Construction Co. [1988] 2
Lloyd's Rep 44; International Chamber of Commerce Arbitration Rules 2010, [“ICC Rules”] Art. 41.
65 ICC Case No. 1986 of 1990; Julian D.M. Lew, Applicable Law in International Commercial Arbitration: A
Study in Commercial Arbitration Awards (1st edn., Dobbs Ferry Oceana 1978) 537; Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern
and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford University Press 2004) 362; ICC Case
No. 4695 of 1984.
66 Victrix Steamship Co., S.A. v. Salen Dry Cargo A.B. [1987] 825 F.2d 709.
67 NY Convention, Art. V; Model Law, Art. 34(2).
68 NY Convention, Art. V(1)(a); Model Law, Art. 34(2)(a)(i).
69 M/S Lion Engineering Consultants v. State of M.P. et Al. [2018] AIR 1895.
70 Herbert Kronke, Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards: A Global Commentary on the
New York Convention (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2010) 381; Gary B. Born, International Commercial
Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 3676; Simon Vorburger, International Arbitration and
Cross-Border Insolvency: Comparative Perspectives (4th edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 218.
[¶46.] Thus, if the present proceedings continue, the award would be unenforceable in
Yevadu which is the only place of enforcement.
[¶47.] When the parties draw tribunal's attention to a specific jurisdiction as a likely place of
enforcement, the tribunal should consider the law of this place out of abundant caution. 71 The
tribunal should take into consideration the domestic public policy of this place as well 72 as it
may also affect the application of rules of arbitral procedure. 73
[¶48.] Here, it is submitted that the tribunal cannot reasonably foresee the enforceability of
the Award as it is not an ordinary circumstance. Rather, it is a grave circumstance where
insolvency proceedings have been initiated against RESPONDENT which poses a high risk of
perceived unenforceability. This satisfies the standards of ‘abundant caution’ to be adopted by
the Tribunal. Thus, the Tribunal should exercise its discretion to decline jurisdiction in light
of perceived unenforceability.
71 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 365.
72 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
1193; Gary B. Born, International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 2158.
73 Model Law, Art. 36(1)(b)(ii); Deyan Draguiev, The Effect of Insolvency on Pending International
Arbitration: What Is and What Should Not Be (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2015) 542.
1. THE TRIBUNAL SHALL ORDER CLAIMANT TO DISCLOSE THE THIRD PARTY FUNDING.
[¶51.] The opponent is required to satisfy the standards of specificity, relevance, and
materiality governing production of information.79 Further, CLAIMANT has the duty to
cooperate in good faith in the taking of evidence.80 Thereby, RESPONDENT submits that
CLAIMANT should be ordered to disclose the existence of third party funding as, first,
RESPONDENT has sufficient means to believe that CLAIMANT has concluded a third party
funding [A]; Second, the required disclosure is relevant and material [B].
[¶52.] If a party has reasonable means to believe that the other has concluded a third party
funding the former is required to demonstrate the same,81 along with the description of
documents that are reasonably believed to exist.82Further, as per the doctrine of apparent
authority, where a party can reasonably rely on external representation which imply that the
latter has the authority to make such representation.83 Subsequently, it forms sufficient means
74 Jonas von Goeler, Third- Party Funding in International Arbitration and its Impact on Procedure (2nd edn.,
Kluwer Law International 2016) 133.
75 Singapore International Arbitration Centre Rules 2016, [“SIAC Rules”] Rule 27(c).
76 SIAC Practice Note on Arbitrator Conduct in Cases Involving External Funding [31 March 2017].
77 ICSID Case No. 12/6 of 2015.
78 SIAC Rules, Rule 27(j).
79 Jonas von Goeler, Third- Party Funding in International Arbitration and its Impact on Procedure (2nd edn.,
Kluwer Law International 2016) 137.
80 ICC Case No. 1434 of 1975.
81 ICSID Case No. 10/6 of 2010; Jeffrey Maurice Waincymer, Procedure and Evidence in International
Arbitration (3rd edn., Kluwer Law International 2012) 863.
82 International Bar Association Rules on the Taking of Evidence in International Commercial Arbitration
2010, Art. 3(a).
83 Hugh Beale, Chitty on Contracts (30th edn., Sweet & Maxwell 2008) 350.
[¶53.] Here, CLAIMANT is being represented by FLB who is funded by an external funder,
namely VF as evidenced by the managing director of VF in a newspaper article. 84 It is
submitted that any statement made by the managing director of a company is ‘sufficient
means’ to believe in the prospect.
[¶54.] Thus, RESPONDENT has sufficient means to believe that CLAIMANT has concluded a
third party funding.
i. Existence of a third party funding is a relevant factor in assessing the request for
security of costs.
[¶56.] Security for costs applications against funded parties require disclosure of existence
of external funding87. Parties are expected to disclose any agreement by which a litigation
funder is to pay or contribute to the costs of the proceeding, any security for costs or any
adverse costs order.88 It is usually the impecunious parties who make use of third party
funding in order to pursue their claims.89The tribunal has the power to enquire whether or not
the external funder has committed to undertake adverse costs liability.90Furthermore, tribunals
[¶57.] Here, RESPONDENT has applied for security of costs 92 on the basis of unequal position
of the Parties due to the existence of third party funding. It is submitted that there is a
possibility of CLAIMANT being an impecunious party. In order to assess the application, the
Tribunal would require the information and extent of the third party funding.
[¶58.] Thus, existence of a third party funding is a relevant factor in assessing the request for
security of costs.
[¶60.] Furthermore, the tribunal has duty to disclose any circumstances that may give rise to
justifiable doubts as to impartiality or independence, including any relationship with an
external funder and has power to order disclosure about involvement of the funder from the
disputant parties.95 International Bar Association Rules on the Taking of Evidence in
International Arbitration [hereinafter referred to as “IBA Rules”] require the parties to
mandatorily disclose involvement of third party-funders with respect to potential conflict of
interests.96
[¶61.] Here, the discreet existence and identity of an external funder creates justifiable
doubts as to existence of conflict of interest of the Parties and/or the Arbitral Tribunal
regarding the funder. It is submitted that there is a duty cast on the Tribunal and the Parties to
disclose in order to prevent conflict of interests.
[¶62.] Thus, knowledge of existence of third party funding is necessary to determine the
[¶63.] Cost of presenting or defending a claim in international arbitration is huge and if the
tribunal affirms the existence of a valid arbitration agreement, RESPONDENT despite any
circumstances would have no luxury of choice but to drain its resources. In such
circumstances, RESPONDENT is justified in seeking assurance that if awarded the costs, there
will be a fund from which costs award will be paid. 97 Thereby, RESPONDENT submits that,
first, the Tribunal has the power to order security for costs [A]; second, RESPONDENT would
suffer irreparable harm if the cost is not ordered and that this harm would outweigh the
potential harm caused to CLAIMANT[B]; third, RESPONDENT also met its burden of proof
justifying the requirement of security for costs [C].
[¶64.] The power to order security for costs is anchored in its inherent power to preserve the
integrity of the proceedings.98 Further, when the parties agree to arbitrate under certain
arbitration rules containing a general clause for interim measures 99it positively encompasses
the scope of tribunals for ordering such security. The general clauses of the two most relevant
legal regimes, ICSID Convention100 and Model Law101 make the same sufficiently clear.
[¶65.] Here, the Tribunal under SIAC Rules is authorized to order a party to provide security
for costs.102 It is submitted that the Tribunal can take into account the involvement of an
external funder by ordering all or a part of the legal costs of a disputant party be paid by
another disputant party.103
[¶66.] Thus, the Tribunal has the power to order security for costs.
97 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 317.
98 W. Laurance Craig et Al., International Chamber of Commerce Arbitration (3rd edn., Oxford University
Press 2000) 467; ICSID Case No. 09/17 of 2012.
99 International Commercial Chamber Rules 2010, [“ICC Rules”] Art. 28(1); International Centre for Dispute
Resolution Arbitration Rules 2006, [“ICDR Rules”] Art. 21(1); German Code of Civil Procedure 2005, §
1041(1); French New Code of Civil Procedure 2011, Art. 1468; Switzerland's Federal Code on Private
International Law 1987, Art. 183(1).
100 ICDR Rules, Art. 47.
101 Model Law, Art. 26(2)(c).
102 SIAC Rules, Rule 27(j).
103 SIAC Practice Note on Arbitrator Conduct in Cases Involving External Funding [31 March 2017].
[¶67.] Model Law states a party requesting a measure needs to show that it would suffer
irreparable harm if the measure is not ordered and that this harm would outweigh the
potential harm caused to the opposite party by such measure.104
[¶68.] The tribunal observed that the most common situation of such harm is where a
corporate entity’s existence itself is at stake. 105 Further, where a party’s arbitration fees and
expenses are being covered by an external funder, but would not be liable to meet any
potential award of costs, is a compelling grounds for security for costs. 106Security for costs
application has been ordered because of its concern of an undisclosed external funder
escaping an adverse costs ruling.107If there is evidence of a funding arrangement that is likely
to impact on the non-funded party’s ability to recover costs, it is reasonable to demand
costs108
[¶69.] Here, RESPONDENT is likely to suffer the risk of becoming insolvent which is a threat
to its existence.109It is submitted that RESPONDENT would suffer irreparable harm if the
measure is not ordered. Additionally, CLAIMANT’s country is under a trade war with the
country that servers it as the major exporter of raw materials and they have incurred huge
losses globally.110In consequence, there is a potential threat of non-compliance with the award
in light of the losses incurred by CLAIMANT. This would further the harm of RESPONDENT.
CLAIMANT, on the other hand, is being externally funded. 111Hence, harm caused to CLAIMANT
would be comparatively lesser.
[¶70.] Thus, RESPONDENT would suffer irreparable harm if the cost is not ordered and that
this harm would outweigh the potential harm caused to CLAIMANT.
[¶72.] Here, RESPONDENT submitted its request as soon as the necessity became apparent,
i.e. along with the Statement of Defence.115RESPONDENT presented the best evidence available
at that time by including the newspaper article which constitutes sufficient proof. Thus,
RESPONDENT has met its burden of proof in justifying the requirement of security for costs.
[¶73.] In conclusion, CLAIMANT is under an obligation to disclose its source of funding for
pursuing these arbitration proceedings and the Tribunal should order security for legal costs.
[¶74.] CLAIMANT has sought joinder of the Ministry of Power of the Government of Yevadu
[hereinafter referred to as “Minstry”] under Rule 7.8 SIAC Rules.116 It is submitted that first,
the Ministry should not be joined as a party to the present arbitral proceeding under SIAC
Rules and [1]; second, such joinder will violate the fundamental aspects of arbitration [2].
[¶75.] Rule 7.8 of SIAC Rules enumerates two conditions wherein a party or a non-party to
the arbitration can apply to the Tribunal for the joinder of an additional party to the pending
arbitration proceedings. It is submitted that the Ministry cannot be joined to the Arbitral
proceedings. First, the Ministry is not prima facie bound by the arbitration agreement [A];
second, none of the Parties consented to the joinder of the Ministry to the pending arbitration
112 Jeffrey Maurice Waincymer, Procedure and Evidence in International Arbitration (3rd edn., Kluwer Law
International 2012) 793; Gary B. Born, International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law
International 2014) 2309.
113 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 380; Jeffrey Maurice Waincymer, Procedure and Evidence in International Arbitration
(3rd edn., Kluwer Law International 2012) 794; Gary B. Born, International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn.,
Kluwer Law International 2014) 2310.
114 IUSCT Case No. 64 of 1985; R. Doak Bishop et Al., Foreign Investment Disputes: Cases, Materials and
Commentary (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International 2014) 325; Jeffrey Maurice Waincymer, Procedure and
Evidence in International Arbitration (3rd edn., Kluwer Law International 2012) 794.
115 Case Record, Exhibit R3, 37.
116 SIAC Rules, Rule 7.8.
[¶76.] The reference to ‘prima facie’ establishes a relatively low threshold for Rule 7.8(a)
SIAC Rules to be engaged.117 The tribunal only needs to consider whether there is a valid
arbitration clause covering the existing dispute and the non-party concerned. 118 It is submitted
that primarily, a valid arbitration clause does not exist [i]; alternatively, the Ministry is not
bound by such arbitration clause [ii].
[¶77.] A valid arbitration clause covering the existing dispute and the non-party concerned is
necessary to be established.119 For an arbitration clause to be valid there must be
manifestation of unequivocal consent of the parties to arbitrate.120
[¶78.] Here, as already established, the Addendum is not a valid arbitration clause. There
existed no manifestation of unequivocal consent of the Parties to arbitrate. Clause 11.0 does
not refer the dispute solely to arbitration but rather confers a choice upon the Parties to opt
between arbitration and litigation. Addendum is intended by the Parties as merely an
explanation regarding the arbitral procedure, in case the Parties choose to arbitrate.
[¶80.] The joinder of a third party to an arbitration clause cannot be permitted if it did not
sign it. Only way to cover such a third party under the arbitration clause, is if the party
signing the agreement was acting on behalf of the third party and was further permitted by the
third party to enter into arbitration clauses with other parties.121
[¶81.] It is submitted that first, the Ministry and RESPONDENT are separate legal entities [a];
117 John Choong et Al., A Guide to the SIAC Arbitration Rules (2nd edn., Oxford University Press 2018) 115.
118 ibid.
119 ibid.
120 Philippe Fouchard et Al., International Commercial Arbitration (1st edn., Kluwer Law International 1999)
485; Reinmar Wolff, New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards
1958- Commentary (1st edn., C.H. Beck Hart Nomos Publications 2012) 54; The International Council for
Commercial Arbitration, ‘Guide on New York Convention 1958, A Handbook for Judges’ [2012]
<https://www.arbitration-
icca.org/media/0/13365477041670/judges_guide_english_composite_final_revised_may_2012.pdf> accessed
on 9 January 2020; Joannes Robert et Al., The French Law of Arbitration (5th edn., Mathew Bender 1983) 134.
121 Westland Helicopters Ltd. v. The Arab Organization for Industrialization, the United Arab Emirates, the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the State of Qatar and the Arab Republic of Egypt [1991] 25 YICCA 174.
[¶82.] A corporation and the State are two distinct entities even if the corporation is owned
or controlled by the State.122
[¶83.] Here, it is submitted that the senior management123 was consulted while rejecting
CLAIMANT’s request for renegotiation of the Agreement and not the Ministry. RESPONDENT’s
obligation to issue purchase order after consulting with the Ministry was further omitted
through practice of both the Parties.124 In consequence, the involvement of the Ministry in
performance of the Agreement was a mere formality. Further, the dispute resolution through
negotiation under Clause 1.0 did not concern the Ministry. There is no evidence on record to
show that there was an explicit agreement between the Ministry and RESPONDENT permitting
the latter to enter into arbitration agreements on behalf of the former. The same cannot be
taken to be complied.
[¶84.] Thus, the Ministry and RESPONDENT are separate legal entities.
[¶85.] The rights and obligations in an arbitration agreement apply only to its parties. 125 A
government company cannot be presumed to be an agent of the State. 126 It is reaffirmed by
the doctrine of privity.127
[¶86.] Agency, an exception of privity, is derived from a specific contract which confers
authority upon the agent in the form of consent to enter into agreements on its behalf. 128 It
does not arise from any other relationship between the parties or their affiliates. 129 The
involvement and functioning of all the parties during the negotiation, performance and
termination of the underlying agreement should be determined to ascertain the common intent
of the parties.130
[¶89.] The consent of the parties is the very basis of the voluntary system of arbitration. 132 In
consequence, to join a party to the arbitral proceedings, mandatory consent of all the parties
including the additional party to be joined, is required.133 The prior agreement of the parties to
be bound by SIAC Rules does not amount to consent.134
[¶90.] Here, it is submitted that both the Ministry and RESPONDENT have not consented to
the joinder of the Ministry to the arbitral proceedings since the Ministry has not signed the
Agreement. Moreover, the Agreement is silent about the addition of non-signatory to the
arbitral proceedings.
[¶91.] Thus, both the Ministry and RESPONDENT have not consented to the joinder of the
Ministry to the arbitral proceedings.
[¶92.] Arbitration is a matter of consent.135 Party autonomy is the prevailing right of the
contracting parties136 to choose the governing law, rules and principles applicable to their
[¶93.] Here, the initiation of arbitration though disputed, is pursuant to the Addendum signed
by both the Parties.140 Ms. Ruth Greene has been appointed as the sole arbitrator in its
furtherance.141 It is submitted that the Ministry did not participate in the procedure of
arbitration. Any joinder to such effect will lead to violation of the fundamental principles of
arbitration i.e. party autonomy. Further, RESPONDENT’s reasonable expectation of privacy and
confidentiality in the arbitral proceedings will be infringed. Thus, a forced joinder of the
Ministry under SIAC Rules violates the fundamental principles of arbitration.
[¶94.] In conclusion, the Ministry of the Government of Yevadu should not be joined as a
party to the present arbitral proceedings.
[¶95.] RESPONDENT submits that first, CLAIMANT’s failure to timely deliver the components
amounts to a breach of the Agreement. [1]; second, RESPONDENT was justified in terminating
the Agreement under Art. 49 CISG [2].
[¶96.] RESPONDENT asserts, first, that CLAIMANT’s failure to deliver the components on the
fixed date breached the obligations under Art. 30 and Art. 33 CISG [A]; Second, CLAIMANT’s
failure to perform is not exempted under Art. 79 CISG [B].
A. CLAIMANT’S FAILURE TO DELIVER THE COMPONENTS ON THE FIXED DATE BREACHED THE
OBLIGATIONS UNDER ART. 30 AND ART. 33 CISG.
137 Bühler et Al., Handbook of ICC Arbitration: Commentary, Precedents, Materials (2nd edn., Sweet &
Maxwell 2008) 109; Gary B. Born, International Commercial Arbitration (2nd edn., Kluwer Law International
2014) 84.
138 Alan Redfern et Al., Redfern and Hunter on International Commercial Arbitration (6th edn., Oxford
University Press 2004) 30.
139 ICC Rules, Art. 7; London Court of International Arbitration Rules, Art. 22.1(viii).
140 Case Record, Exhibit C2, 14.
141 Case Record, Notice of Arbitration and Statement of Claim, 7.
[¶98.] Here, as per the Agreement, CLAIMANT agreed to supply the parts and components on
the basis of the Requisition List and purchase order issued by RESPONDENT on or before the
31st of each quarter ending.145 It is submitted that, CLAIMANT evidently failed to perform the
said obligation as it did not abide by the said deadline prescribed by the agreement.
[¶99.] Thus, CLAIMANT’s failure to supply the components on the fixed date amounts to a
breach of contract under Art. 30 and Art. 33 CISG.
L. CLAIMANT’S FAILURE TO PERFORM THE CONTRACT IS NOT EXEMPTED UNDER ART. 79.
[¶100.] A party’s failure to perform its contractual obligations is not exempted from liability
under Art. 79 CISG. RESPONDENT asserts that, first, the increase in costs is not an
impediment rather is under CLAIMANT’s control and within his sphere of risk [i]. Second,
even if the increase in costs is regarded as an economic impediment CLAIMANT could have
overcome the said impediment [ii].
i. The increase in costs is not an impediment rather is under CLAIMANT’s control and
within his sphere of risk.
[¶102.] A 100 per cent increase in cost does not constitute an economic impediment, 147and a
party may even have to accept a tripled market price. 148The seller must exhaust all
possibilities which do not exceed the ultimate limit of sacrifice to acquire them. 149 Further,
142 United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods 1980, [“CISG”] Art. 30.
143 ibid Art. 33(a).
144 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 573.
145 Case Record, Exhibit C1, 13.
146 CISG-Advisory Council, ‘Exemption of Liability for Damages’ [2007] <Cisg.law.pace.edu/cisg/CISG-AC-
op7.html> accessed on 12 January 2020.
147 Bulgarian Case No. 11/1996 of 1998.
148 German Case No. 1 U 167/95 of 1997; ICC Case No. 6281 of 1989.
149 Peter Huber et. Al., The CISG a New Textbook for Students and Practitioners (3rd edn., Sellier European
Law Publishers 2007) 262.
[¶103.] Here, CLAIMANT faced a mere increase in its costs of production 151. Further
CLAIMANT is the market energy leader in Xanier and provides approximately 75% of the
power utilities in Xanier.152 The limit of sacrifice is not to be looked at as a matter of
numbers. It is submitted that a mere increase in cost cannot be held as an economic
impediment for a company as huge and financially capable as CLAIMANT. Rather, it was
within their sphere of risk as CLAIMANT is responsible for its financial capacity and it did not
exhaust all possibilities.
[¶104.] Thus, the increase in costs was not an impediment and was under CLAIMANT’s
control.
[¶105.] It is expected to overcome an impediment in spite of the increased costs and resultant
losses in order to perform the contract in the agreed manner.153 Furthermore, depending upon
the circumstances, promisor may be obliged to acquire the goods at a higher price.154
[¶106.] Here, CLAIMANT could have overcome the impediment even if resulted in alleviation
of prices or a loss. For CLAIMANT even after incurring such costs the limit of sacrifice would
not have been reached. It is submitted that CLAIMANT was obliged to obtain the goods at a
higher price as mere alleviation of cost form no grounds to commit a breach.
[¶107.] Thus, CLAIMANT could have paid the increased prices and overcome the impediment.
[¶108.]The buyer can terminate the contract if the seller’s breach was fundamental in
150 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 1134.
151 Case Record, Notice of Arbitration and Statement of Claim, 9.
152 Case Record, Notice of Arbitration and Statement of Claim, 7.
153 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 1135.
154 Ulrich Magnus, Commentary on the Civil Code with the Introduction of the Law and By-Laws, Vienna
(CISG) (13th edn., Sellier de Gruyter 1994) 257.
[¶109.] The delayed delivery of parts and components by CLAIMANT amount to a fundamental
breach of the Agreement. A breach of contract is fundamental if it results in such detriment to
the other party as to substantially deprive it of what it is entitled to expect under the contract.
156
Further, late delivery has been held to constitute a fundamental breach of contract when it
violates the agreed delivery schedule which as the seller knows has to be strictly observed. 157
Thus, RESPONDENT asserts, first, it suffered a detriment by receiving delayed delivery [i];
Second, the detriment substantially deprived it of what it was entitled to expect under the
Agreement [ii]; and third, this substantial detriment was reasonably foreseeable by
CLAIMANT [iii].
[¶110.] The requirements for a detriment are met if there is a measurable damage and when
the seller's behaviour results in an unfavourable situation for the buyer.158
[¶111.] Here, RESPONDENT identified three regions which required immediate attention due to
the lack of infrastructure and development in these areas which included Tullyland. 159
CLAIMANT was made aware of the strategic importance of the Plant. It is submitted that, time
was of essence to RESPONDENT as was evident when it stressed that the parts are delivered on
time so that the Plant is shut for minimum number of days.
vii. The detriment substantially deprived it of what it was entitled to expect under the
Agreement.
[¶114.] Here, during the negotiations of the Agreement, RESPONDENT made it clear to
CLAIMANT about the importance of the Plant. Further, RESPONDENT’s expectation was also
conveyed to CLAIMANT beforehand. It is submitted that, the failure of CLAIMANT to deliver
the specified parts for the fourth quarter within the stipulated time caused substantial
detriment to RESPONDENT. Time was of essence to RESPONDENT as was evident from the
Agreement.162
[¶115.] Thus, RESPONDENT had reasonable grounds to expect a timely delivery and is
substantially deprived it of what it was entitled to expect under the contract.
[¶117.] A party agreeing to a fundamentally important date is a sufficient condition in itself. 165
Therefore, where the date of delivery is specified it is immaterial that the breaching party
could have been aware of the further consequences
[¶118.] Here, RESPONDENT wanted the parts to be supplied by 31 st of each quarter ending.
This condition was clearly specified in the agreement, leaving no scope for ambiguity based
160 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 428.
161 German Case No. 8 ZR 394/12 of 2014.
162Case Record, Exhibit C1, 2.
163 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 431.
164 ibid 432.
165 ibid.
[¶119.] Thus, disregarding the clearly mentioned date leaves no scope for CLAIMANT to argue
upon the foreseeability of the detriment.
c. Even if the contention is taken into account the detriment was foreseeable for
CLAIMANT.
[¶120.] If the importance of the contract has been stated in the contract or the negotiations a
detriment arising out of the breach becomes foreseeable for the party in breach.166A definite
date for delivery may either be stated in the contract to be ‘fixed’ or it may be essential
because of the parties’ negotiation.167
[¶121.] Here, RESPONDENT not only through a clause in the Agreement set a fixed delivery
date but also through negotiations discussed the importance of the date of delivery towards
the conclusion of the Agreement. Further, CLAIMANT was made aware of the importance of
energy in the area and the consequences of a delay. It is submitted that, CLAIMANT was made
aware of the importance of the date of delivery and therefore, it should have foreseen the
detriment.
[¶122.] Thus, having been aware of all these circumstances, the arising detriment to
RESPONDENT was reasonably foreseeable by CLAIMANT.168
[¶124.] Here, the breach in obligations is said to have occurred due to the intense trade war
between Xanier and Zorastra.171 The said trade war has neither ended and no speculations
regarding the conclusion of the trade war can be made. This could be used by CLAIMANT to
[¶125.] Thus, RESPONDENT has sufficient reasons to avoid the Agreement for the future under
Art. 73 CISG so that it doesn’t suffer any loss.
[¶126.] Faced with the consequences of the breach of contract, it was unreasonable for
RESPONDENT to await subsequent performance. First, right to avoid takes priority over
seller’s right to cure [i]; Second, the subsequent performance would cause unreasonable
inconvenience to the buyer [ii]; and third, the additional period of time as per Art. 47 CISG is
not a mandatory requirement [iii].
[¶128.] Here, in the contract, a Party reserves the right to terminate the Agreement in the
event of a material breach of the Agreement by the other Party. 175 Further, it has been
established that there is a fundamental breach of contract. It is submitted that, RESPONDENT
holds the right to terminate at the time of fundamental breach. Further, this right of
termination based upon contravention of obligations came into force along with the
commencement of the contract.
[¶129.] Thus, in absence of any right to remedy, RESPONDENT’s right to avoid would take
priority over CLAIMANT’s right to cure.
172 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 770.
173 ibid 773.
174 ibid 778.
175 Case Record, Exhibit, C1, 13.
[¶131.] Here, the plant has to be shut down for maintenance as it causes disruption and
therefore, shall be limited to least possible time. This prospect was also conveyed to
CLAIMANT at the time of negotiations for conclusion of the Agreeement. It is submitted that,
the disruption would cause stagnation in the working and subsequently huge harm to the
energy sensitive area.
[¶132.] Thus, there is no scope for subsequent performance as it would cause unreasonable
inconvenience to RESPONDENT.
[¶133.] The buyer may fix an additional period of time of reasonable length for performance
by the seller of his obligations.177 Therefore, it is safe to infer that the choice of fixing an
additional period is upon RESPONDENT and is not mandated to do so by the Art 47.
Furthermore, in cases of seller’s breach of obligation, the buyer has a right to avoid contract
if the breach of contract is fundamental. The fixing of an additional period is of no
consequence in that regard.178
[¶134.] Here, RESPONDENT was not bound to fix an additional period. Further it is submitted
that, as CLAIMANT made a fundamental breach it the requirement of an additional period was
of no regard.
[¶135.] Thus, RESPONDENT’S right to terminate under fundamental breach takes priority over
the discretionary provision of additional period of time and it was justified in terminating the
Agreement.
[¶136.] In conclusion, CLAIMANT’S conduct breached the Agreement and RESPONDENT was
justified in terminating the Agreement.
176 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 767.
177 CISG, Art. 47.
178 Ingeborg Schwenzer, Commentary on the CISG (4th edn., Oxford University Press 2016) 75.
[¶137.] PRAYER
[¶138.] RESPONDENT respectfully requests this Tribunal, on the basis of prior and foregoing
written submissions to FIND and DECLARE that:
1. The Tribunal does not have jurisdiction over the dispute owing to the absence of a
valid arbitration clause between the Parties which refers the disputes to arbitration
under the aegis of the SIAC or alternatively,
2. The Tribunal is devoid of jurisdiction owing to the order of the NCLT dated 21 st
February, 2019.
1. To disclose it source of funding and furnish security for legal costs for defending the
arbitration by RESPONDENT.
[¶140.]
[¶141.] Or any other order and/or declaration that the Tribunal may deem fit in light
of justice, equity and good conscience
[¶142.]
[¶145.]