Benton GlobalTech Solutions Private Limited (BGSP), an Indian IT services company, is engaged in an arbitration proceeding against Innovatech Inc., a US-based technology firm. The arbitration is governed by the Arbitrati

Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) is the use of internet technology to resolve the disputes between the parties outside of the public court system. In its most basic sense, ODR is the use of technology to 'resolve' disputes. It is not just any form of technology integration (such as electronically scheduling a session), but its active use to help resolve the dispute (such as video conferencing for hearings or electronic document sharing for filing). Though derived from Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR), ODR's benefit extends beyond just e-ADR or ADR that is enabled through technology. ODR can use technology tools that are powered by AI/ML in the form of automated dispute resolution, script based solution and curated platforms that cater to specific categories of disputes. In State of Maharashtra vs. Dr. Praful B. Desai (2003 4 SCC 601) , the Supreme Court acknowledged the use of video conferencing to record witness statements. Therefore, the submissions and the proceedings can take place online and duly valid under the Arbitration Act. In Grid Corporation of Orissa Ltd. vs. AES Corporation (2002) 7 SCC 736) , the Supreme Court explicitly mentions that: 'When an effective consultation can be achieved by resort to electronic media and remote conferencing, it is not necessary that the two persons required to act in consultation with each other must necessarily sit together at one place unless it is the requirement of law or of the ruling contract between the parties'. In view of the above discussion, it may be said that there is no restriction on use of video conferencing for completion of arbitration proceedings.