Judgment

S. B. SINHA, J.

( 1 ) WHAT constitutes a reasonable notice by an arbitrator is the question involved in these appeals which arise out of a judgment and decree dated 1. 3. 1979 passed by a division Bench of the Calcutta High Court affirming an order passed by a learned single judge setting aside an arbitration award.

( 2 ) THE basic fact of the matter is not in dispute. Two groups of persons - one Guptas and another Sharmas - held several properties including three firms, six limited companies, one trust and other movable and immovable assets. Both the groups had 50 shares each. The family members of the Guptas and Sharmas Groups were interested in many or in some of the businesses and the firms. The family tree of the Gupta Group is as under:

( 3 ) DISPUTES and differences having arisen between the two groups as also between the family members of the same group, an agreement was entered into on or about 10. 4. 1975 for referring some of the disputes to the arbitration of one Mr. B. J. Bhide. The material parts of said agreement are as under:"1. The parties hereto hereby agree that all disputes differences between the parties or their representatives concerning or relating