Overview The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 was amended in 2015 to introduce Section 11(6A) . This amendment marks a paradigm shift by overruling the earlier judicial approach laid down in the Patel Engineering dictum . The change applies only to cases instituted after 23 October 2015 ; earlier proceedings continue to be governed by the broader judicial scrutiny. Key Developments Introduction of Section 11(6A) in the 2015 amendment. Supreme Court’s post‑amendment rulings treat the existence of an arbitration agreement as a threshold issue only. Pre‑amendment cases (filed before 23 Oct 2015 ) retain the right to challenge the substantive validity of the agreement. The amendment aims to reduce judicial interference, expedite dispute resolution, and align India with international arbitration standards. Important Facts • The amendment does **not** invalidate the original Act; it merely adds a procedural carve‑out. • Courts can still intervene if the arbitration agreement is non‑existent, void, or illegal. • The shift has led to a noticeable decline in the number of cases where courts examine the content of arbitration clauses. UPSC Relevance Understanding this legislative change is crucial for GS‑2 aspirants. It illustrates how statutory amendments can reshape judicial philosophy, impact the efficiency of dispute resolution mechanisms, and influence India’s attractiveness as an investment destination. The case also exemplifies the balance between judicial oversight and legislative intent, a recurring theme in constitutional law. Way Forward • Monitor how lower courts interpret the “existence” test to ensure uniformity. • Legislative refinements may be needed to address ambiguities, such as defining “existence” in complex commercial contracts. • Continuous training for judges on international arbitration norms can further reduce unnecessary litigation.