ORDER :

This Special Leave Petition is against an order dated 27th January 2021 passed by the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad, dismissing the First Appeal filed by the Petitioners against an order dated 26th April 2018 passed by the learned District Judge, Agra rejecting the Arbitration Miscellaneous Case No. 281 of 2010 filed by the Petitioners under Section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, challenging an arbitral award dated 17th April 2010 passed by the Arbitral Tribunal comprised of a former High Court Judge. The First Appeal has been dismissed solely on the ground of delay.

2. The Petitioner State of Uttar Pradesh invited tenders for construction of a Gymnastic Hall in Eklavya Sports Stadium at Agra, pursuant to which the Respondent submitted its tender. The tender submitted by the Respondent being the lowest, the same was accepted.

3. A contract dated 22nd September 1998 was executed by and between the Superintending Engineer, Agra Firozabad Circle, Public Works Department, Agra representing the State of Uttar Pradesh and the Respondent, for construction of the Gymnastic Hall for consideration of Rs.48,55,800/-. The construction was to be completed in twel