What Is The Limitation Period For Enforcement Of Arbitral Awards?

Limitation periods govern the time frame within which a party can seek enforcement of arbitral awards. In India, the enforcement of arbitral awards is subject to the Limitation Act, 1963, which prescribes the time limits to file petitions or suits. Understanding these limitation periods is essential to avoid losing the right to enforce awards, ensuring timely justice and certainty in arbitration.

Limitation Period for Enforcement of Arbitral Awards in India

1. Limitation Period Under the Limitation Act, 1963

The general limitation period applicable to enforcement of arbitral awards (both domestic and foreign) is three years from the date on which the award becomes enforceable.

This limitation period is derived from Article 136 of the Limitation Act, which applies to suits for possession of immovable property or for recovery of money secured by mortgage or charge.

2. When Does the Limitation Period Start?

The limitation period starts from the date on which the party is entitled to enforce the award.

Typically, this is the date when the award is pronounced/finalized or when the award debtor fails to comply voluntarily.

3. Domestic vs. Foreign Awards

Both domestic and foreign arbitral awards follow the same three-year limitation period for enforcement.

For foreign awards, the date of enforcement petition filing is crucial and the limitation period runs similarly from when enforcement is sought.

4. Section 36 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996

Section 36 provides that once an arbitral award is filed with the court for enforcement, it has the same status as a decree of the court.

Limitation for execution thereafter follows normal civil procedure rules.

5. Extension or Suspension of Limitation

Courts may sometimes exercise discretion to condone delay due to sufficient cause.

However, strict adherence is generally expected.

6. Consequences of Delay

Filing after the limitation period may lead to rejection of enforcement petitions.

Parties lose the legal right to enforce the award.

Example

Scenario:

An Indian company obtains an arbitral award in its favor dated 1st January 2020. The losing party does not comply with the award.

Steps:

The company must file the enforcement petition by 31st December 2022 (within three years).

Filing after this date could lead to dismissal on limitation grounds.

If the petition is timely, the court processes enforcement as per the Arbitration and Conciliation Act.

Key Takeaway:

Timely action within the limitation period is critical to preserve the right to enforce arbitral awards effectively.