MOUSHUMI BHATTACHARYA, J. - (1.) The Court :
(2.) This is an application filed by the petitioner (claimant in the arbitration proceedings) under section 29A of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 for an extension of six months with effect from 30th April, 2021 and for the learned Arbitrator to make the Award within the extended time.
(3.) Learned counsel appearing for the petitioner submits that the petitioner obtained a first extension by an order dated 29th September, 2020 by which time was extended till 30th April, 2021. Counsel submits that sittings were held on virtual mode from January till April, 2021 during which the evidence was concluded. Further dates were fixed in April and May, 2021 but the hearing could not be carried on beyond 7th May, 2021 by reason of the lockdown and other practical difficulties arising therefrom. Counsel submits that arguments are presently being made by the petitioner/ claimant and seeks a further extension of time for the Arbitrator for publishing the Award.;