In arbitration proceedings in India, the admissibility of evidence is governed by the
Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, along with general principles of law and rules of
procedure. The key aspects of admissible evidence in Indian arbitration proceedings are as
follows:

1. Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996

•  The Act does not explicitly lay down rules on evidence but provides the framework for
  arbitrators to conduct proceedings, including the power to admit or exclude evidence.
• Section 19 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act gives the arbitral tribunal the
  discretion to determine the procedure to be followed, which includes the manner of
  receiving evidence.

2. Principles of Evidence

•  Indian Evidence Act, 1872: While the provisions of the Indian Evidence Act are not
  directly applicable to arbitration proceedings, they provide useful guidance on the
  admissibility of evidence, particularly where the parties have agreed to follow the rules
  of evidence. Some provisions may be applicable depending on the nature of the
  arbitration (for example, documentary evidence).
• Arbitrators are generally expected to apply principles of fairness and justice, and can
  take a more relaxed approach than the formal courts in accepting evidence.

3. Types of Evidence in Arbitration

•  Oral Evidence: Testimony given by witnesses. Though the procedures are more
  flexible, witnesses may be called to testify, and their testimony can be heard in person,
  or sometimes in writing.
• Documentary Evidence: Documents are the most common form of evidence in
  arbitration. These may include contracts, correspondence, invoices, reports, and other
  records.
•  Expert Evidence: In cases requiring specialized knowledge, expert witnesses may be
  called to provide their opinions or analyses.
• Electronic Evidence: Electronic records, such as emails, text messages, and data, can
  be admitted as evidence if they comply with the requirements of authenticity and
  relevance.

4. Standards for Admissibility

• Relevance: Evidence must be relevant to the issues at hand.
• Authenticity: Documentary evidence must be genuine, and the party submitting
  evidence must demonstrate its authenticity. In the case of electronic records, it must be
  proved that the evidence is not tampered with.
• Confidentiality: Certain types of evidence, especially business-sensitive documents,
  may be subject to confidentiality agreements. Arbitral tribunals often manage
  confidentiality through appropriate orders.

5. Role of the Arbitral Tribunal

• The arbitral tribunal has broad discretion in determining the rules of evidence, including
  whether to accept or reject certain evidence.
•  Arbitrators are not bound by the strict rules of evidence that apply in court, though they
  must ensure the fairness of proceedings.
• The tribunal can decide whether evidence must be presented in writing, whether
  witnesses should appear in person, and whether documents should be submitted as part
  of the case.
• If evidence is disputed, arbitrators can rule on whether it can be admitted, and the
  weight to be given to it. .

6. Hearing and Presentation of Evidence

• Arbitration hearings can be held in a formal setting, or more informally, depending on
  the preferences of the parties and the nature of the dispute.
• Parties generally submit written statements, which may include evidence, prior to
  hearings.
• Oral submissions and presentations of evidence may be made during hearings. The
  arbitral tribunal may request specific evidence from the parties if necessary.

7. Documentary Evidence Rules

•  Parties are generally required to exchange documents at the outset of the arbitration
  process.
• The tribunal may establish deadlines for the submission of documents and may decide
  to exclude documents submitted late unless justified.

8. Exclusion of Evidence

• Non-compliance with Procedural Orders: If a party fails to comply with procedural
  orders on evidence, the tribunal may exclude such evidence.
• Irrelevant or Inadmissible Evidence: Arbitrators have the discretion to exclude
  evidence that is irrelevant, not authenticated, or otherwise inadmissible.

9. Flexibility and Informality

• Arbitration proceedings in India allow for flexibility and a degree of informality in the
  presentation and admission of evidence. The rules governing arbitration in India are
  designed to ensure that evidence is presented in a manner that is fair and equitable to
  both parties.