No Arbitration Without Privity: Non-Signatory Can’t Bind Principal – SC

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. Vs BCL Secure Premises Pvt Ltd. (Supreme Court) No Privity, No Arbitration: Non-Signatory Must Show Intent- Sub-Vendor Cannot Force Arbitration on Principal Employer Without Consent Dispute arose from HPCL’s tender for Tank Truck Locking System (TTLS) awarded to AGC Networks Ltd. BCL, a sub-vendor to AGC, later attempted to invoke arbitration against HPCL relying on an assignment-cum-settlement agreement executed only between AGC & BCL. HPCL denied privity, citing express contractual prohibition against subletting or assignment without prior written ...