Super Lawyer

Tag: Supreme Court

  • “The importance of legal scholarship can be seen not only in academic growth but also through a positive change in law.” – Shivani Vij, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India.

    “The importance of legal scholarship can be seen not only in academic growth but also through a positive change in law.” – Shivani Vij, Advocate-on-Record, Supreme Court of India.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Your academic journey from graduating at the top of your class at NLIU Bhopal to completing the BCL at Oxford on a Chevening Scholarship has been exceptional. How have these contrasting academic environments shaped your legal reasoning and influenced your professional practice?

    My graduation at NLIU was an intense five-year trimester. NLIU was heavily student run, and this gave me the confidence to take charge. I was at the helm of co-curricular activities, in addition to academia. It also gave me space to grow as a young law student and have an opinion for the first time on anything contemporary or legal.

    NLIU will always feel like home, and I am proud of the strong foundation it gave me, but perhaps it faces the same challenge of the Indian legal education in its narrow/ low focus on independent research and writing. I strongly believe that a system that focuses on application of law and encourages research rather than exams may be better suited for litigation. Part of the problem is a dearth of practitioners as teachers in Indian law schools, unlike med schools. This is extremely relevant for procedural subjects.

    So, while I was at the top of my class in NLIU, I found myself at the bottom of my cohort in Oxford. BCL’s perspective on what a good essay should look like was very different from mine. Clarity of thought was given utmost priority. And though this sounds basic, I began viewing the ability to begin with a proposition of law, develop an argument and reason it out, a skill worth developing. Only later I realised this also reflected a good draft of a synopsis of a Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court. Another area where the BCL broadened my perspective was comparative law. Many cases in the Supreme Court deal with constitutional challenges and look outside the Indian law, such as in anti-discrimination and administrative law. 

    The time spent by practitioners in teaching full time courses; for instance, Kings Counsels in the UK is also a big advantage. They regularly take out time for closed group discussions with two-three students and give individual attention to each essay. This interaction is truly phenomenal. 

    One last thing that I continue to reap the benefits of is the Oxford community. My friends at the programme are very dear to me and the university did everything to make this happen. Most of them, who went on to become barristers and solicitors, are still in touch with me and we often share our work experiences in the midst of remembering our time at the university. On the lighter side, the joy of studying in a Hogwarts styled city, with a library at every corner, and the beautifully designed lush green colleges, is simply unparallelled.

    Not many people start their litigation career with government practice. How was it working in the chamber of an Additional Standing Counsel at the Delhi High Court, very early in your career?

    I worked with Adv. Gautam Narayan (now a designated senior) for about two and a half years, when he was on the Delhi Govt panel. My experience in his chamber was very enriching, yet very demanding. The sheer volume of work one is expected to handle at a government chamber overwhelms you. And dealing with government departments for instructions each day can be very time consuming, with their usual red tape. Few other things that come handy with a government panel is to face constant flak from judges for the slow pace of work, not filing responses promptly etc.

    However, often less spoken about, is the ability to drive change and enable relief as a government counsel, which makes the job fulfilling. Not all cases are adversarial and many times the Court asks for assistance from government lawyers to reach authorities and implement orders. Cases on prison reform, bonded labour and environment protection are best examples of this. As part of the chamber, we were able to facilitate good green work in the Delhi Ridge and played a part in implementing the Delhi School Education Act.

    I consider myself extremely lucky to find a chamber like this and a boss like him, who taught me two simple yet difficult qualities of grit and discipline, that I carry with me till date. 

    Having worked with some of the most respected Senior Advocates and been involved in landmark cases, what have been your most formative learnings from chambers practice at the Supreme Court level?

    Today, the Supreme Court today is not just a constitutional Court but has taken the colour of a Court of Appeal with over twenty statutes with direct appeals from tribunals. To add to this, the bread and butter of a Supreme Court lawyer are special leave petitions which keep the Court fairly occupied. 

    I believe, to have a voice in such a busy appellate court, four things are important: 

    • A good draft is half the battle won.
    • A question of law gives you good ground to argue.
    • Pointed answers to queries makes the Court’s job easy.
    • Integrity goes a long way. Admitting the weakness in your case makes you more amenable to the Court.

    Though the Supreme Court largely remains a senior driven court, a young lawyer who can put her point across in a crisp manner, gauge the reaction of the bench and respond accordingly, can do very well.

    What motivated you to establish your own practice, and what initial hurdles did you face in doing so? What vision did you have for your independent practice from the outset?

    When I left Khaitan in 2018 and moved to litigation, my goal was to become an arguing counsel and have my own chamber someday. The power of a good counsel and her ability to move the bench attracted me. This came from my short stint at the Bombay High Court as part of the Khaitan IP team. 

    I started litigation in Delhi but struggled with its pace and uncertainty of work. The procedural paraphernalia to filing cases also irritated me as a junior. However, on most good days and some bad days, the goal remained firm. Once I stood at the podium and was able to have a conversation with the judge, I felt powerful. Even thought to myself, this is why I joined law school. I thoroughly enjoyed working in both my previous chambers, but I very much looked forward to arguing my own matters and the choice of going independent seemed inevitable. 

    In the last couple of years, I began taking up my own work. Initially, the work was sporadic and low paying, but slowly it’s picking up. A big decision was to decide the right time to take up an office space and keep a clerk. As significant recurrent costs for a young lawyer, this is an important decision to make.

    I must add that Gopal Sir & Haripriya Ma’am (senior advocates), who I worked with for over three years, have been instrumental in this journey. Not only did they help me with my initial cases, but also gave me opportunities to argue in the Supreme Court, even against senior advocates. Their trust and support in my moments of doubt continues to push me to do better. It also reminds me that someone with similar experiences and struggles came through with flying colours, and so can I. A good mentor is your best resource.

    At VIJ Law Offices, your matters span a wide legal spectrum from objecting to claim withdrawals in insolvency proceedings to criminal appeals from convictions and service matters. How do you manage such a diverse caseload, and which case has been the most intellectually or strategically demanding for you?

    As a (very) young chamber, I have tried to cultivate a practice with a wide range of civil and criminal cases. Partly, this stems from my exposure in my previous chambers to a comprehensive range of vires challenge, service law, company matters, land acquisition matters, arbitration, you name it. Soon enough, I gained the confidence to build arguments for any new point of law for any new case. Another factor which played a role is the stage of my career. Right now, I feel I should say ‘yes’ to each and every matter, without the worry of being branded a commercial or a criminal lawyer. A jack of all trades might not be a master of none for young lawyers.

    In my experience, criminal matters such as appeals from convictions, death sentence and bail, though not the most lucrative, require the most amount of work. Since they affect life and liberty of citizens, I find them the most laborious and emotionally challenging. The most intellectually demanding area, however, remains constitutional law. I have been fortunate to work on a spectrum of constitutional issues spanning from reservation law and parliamentary privileges to abrogation of Article 370. Though the interpretation of the Constitution is similar to a statute, but the basis of challenge of an amendment is entirely different and rests on the basic structure doctrine. The process of understanding the history of our Constitution, discerning the basic structure, and testing a constitutional amendment against it is both invigorating and challenging. Once you’ve done this, you may encounter an entirely different constitutional issue next time, such as the one concerning the CEC appointment – can the Courts fill a vacuum that arises due to inaction by the Parliament under the Constitution?  

    You’ve contributed actively through writings in The Hindu, Oxford blogs, and the NLUD Journal. What role do you believe legal scholarship plays in shaping both jurisprudence and public understanding/ change of the law?

    Immense importance. Writing is thinking, and I wish I had started before. As lawyers, we must acknowledge that articulation is our biggest asset. 

    As they say, laws are as good as the people implementing them, and lawyers have a big role to play here. With a firsthand experience of how matters are argued, how legislations work and courts interpret them, we can contribute to legal scholarship with our practical experience. Sr. Adv. Datar’s short articles on Article 14 are a great example of clarity and knowledge that comes with experience. 

    Writing also contributes greatly to drafting a good petition. Though journal publications are more valuable for their in-depth research, writing for newspapers has taught me the art of putting things simply. 

    The importance of legal scholarship can be seen not only in academic growth but also through a positive change in law. The Supreme Court in Navtej Singh (decriminalising homosexuality) and Lt. Col. Nishtha (permanent commission) was influenced by academic writings on indirect discrimination/ disparate impact and developed this as new dimensions of equality under Art. 14. Any new challenge on discrimination would now examine the disparate impact of a gender neutral provision on a particular group of the society.

    Clearing the Advocate-on-Record examination is a commendable feat. What responsibilities accompany this designation, and how has it influenced your litigation strategy and client engagement?

    Thank you. On a lighter note, I am very glad about my AOR results because the exam reminded me how difficult it is to sit down with a pen and paper for 3 hours, in the fear of time running out and the possibility of not making it through as a lawyer with 5-6 years of practice. The fear is real!!

    In my opinion, an Advocate-on-Record is very valuable, both for the client and the court. Right from the first client interaction, to drafting and filing the petition, reasoning with the registry (the most difficult part) and appearing and arguing in the court, an AOR can be a one stop shop to see a matter through in the Supreme Court. An AOR also holds good ground with the client to suggest which senior counsel should be engaged for which kind of matters. Being an AOR also comes with great responsibility. The court holds an AOR accountable for anything regarding the matter and the party, good or bad. When a senior counsel is unable to appear or reach for a matter, the AOR may be asked to address the Court. So, an AOR can easily be said to be the most important lawyer in the Supreme Court today. 

    I must add that historically the perception of an AOR was quite different. AORs often filed matters for other lawyers, without being involved in the process. Typically, lawyers who were solicitors and not attuned to arguing in the Court also chose to be AORs. Slowly and steadily this perception is changing.

    Being an AOR has certainly contributed to my practice. Clients and fellow lawyers, who may have seen me in Court with my previous bosses, feel confident to approach me directly for new cases. I believe clients also get a sense of satisfaction that ‘one lawyer’ would handle their case till the end.

    What advice would you offer to students and young lawyers, given your diverse and global perspective? What resources or habits would you recommend to help them stay sharp and build a well-rounded legal career?

    A simple advice would be – trust your gut to choose right and then trust the process. 

    Today, law has opened many doors for young graduates besides litigation and corporate. More young lawyers are choosing tech, policy, teaching or management roles where a law degree comes handy. One should be free to choose their own path without judgement. When I decided to pursue my LLM, I was told it was a waste of time for litigation and would in fact put me behind my peers. Many corporate firms would also say so and even discount your masters’ experience altogether. Keeping all aside, I decided to pursue the LLM/ BCL in a difficult covid year and would never discount that experience or trade it elsewhere.

    Besides, something that has helped me build a well-rounded career has been teaching. I understand it may not be enjoyable for everyone, but a fresh exchange of ideas to a deep dive into law, can open our horizons like no other. Teaching a course on bail this semester has made me realise some fallacies in our system, which I wasn’t privy to or hadn’t given much thought as a lawyer.

    Lastly, a piece of advice which is more suited to the legal profession than any other is – to persevere. Whichever path one may choose, the road to a successful lawyer is a long one. While I am still on this road, I’ve realized that I have been able to overcome the difficulties I faced in my career early on. For instance, understanding the court roster, procedure, complex matters, all seemed too alien when I started practicing in 2018. There was an urge to turn to more lucrative opportunities and turn down the sweat and blood of litigation. But perseverance kept me going and hopefully gets me through.

    Get in touch with Shivani Vij –

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  • “Litigation is a marathon where the efforts that one puts in during the initial years yield results in the long run.” – Ramakrishnan S, Advocate on Record and Principal Attorney at Shiva & Co. Advocates.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    What initially inspired you to pursue a career in law? Was it a personal passion or did your father’s legacy in the legal field play a defining role in shaping your decision?

    Two reasons I suppose. The first being that my father was a lawyer as well. Though I didn’t know much in my younger years about the profession, just seeing him in the blazer and robe felt classy and had a certain aura. The second was that I didn’t quite like maths and science as subjects during my schooling days so much so that after Class 10 I immediately switched to Humanities for Class 11 and 12. On a lighter note, they say ‘karma is a boomerang’. I managed to avoid anything to do with Maths and Science for a good 7 years post Class 10 but both of them resurfaced once I stepped into my legal career and have been part of my journey since courtesy the matters that I handle. 

    You took over Shiva & Co. Advocates in 2008 at just 23. How did you adapt to the challenges of leading a full-fledged law firm so early in your career, and what were the key lessons from that transition?

    Circumstances forced me to take over the firm at the age of 23. I had just completed my LL.B from University Law College, Bengaluru in mid-2007 and was on track to do my Masters in Law having secured an offer both in London School of Economics and National University Singapore. Unfortunately, I lost my father in March 2008. Shiva & Co. Advocates was my father’s baby which he had started in the year 1988 and I did not want to see it shut down because he was no more, hence I immediately took over the reins of the firm. The challenges were aplenty since I was a complete rookie with an elementary knowledge of the law and no practical experience. My father, due to his sheer hardwork and dedication had become a successful and well-known lawyer and had built up a sizable practice and the nature of matters that he worked on towards his last few years involved high value and high stakes. My first few days after taking over the firm were spent in reaching out to Clients and asking them if they wanted to continue with the firm or wanted the briefs to be returned. The exercise rendered me almost briefless since Clients understandably did not want to entrust such high value and high stake matters to a rookie Counsel. My father’s junior colleagues at the chamber had moved on post his demise. The only staff I was left with was my father’s chauffeur, court clerk and stenographer. It took some time but slowly, brick by brick, with the able assistance of my support staff, we put things together. I was fortunate enough that in a couple of months, two clients of my father, one an individual and another a company in the travel sector gave me my first briefs, one being a landlord-tenant dispute and the other a consumer matter. The faith and encouragement that they reposed in me helped me find my footing and since then there has been no looking back. One thing that I never gave up on even during those early days when I was brief less, visiting Courts and reading up on the law. In terms of lessons or learnings, I would only say that what helped me during those early years were certain key aspects – mental fortitude to run the firm, come what may, a thirst to succeed in the profession, constant reading of the law and observing matters across various Courts. I always tell my junior colleagues that for a Lawyer, his/her eyes, ears and tongue are the most important sense organs. Eyes to observe, ears to hear and tongue to voice out an appropriate response after the brain has processed all the information and the right combination of this is what creates magic in Court. 

    Your firm handles a broad spectrum of work, from civil and criminal litigation to real estate and corporate matters. How do you manage and balance these diverse practice areas while maintaining quality and consistency across them?

    It comes down to putting in place an effective strategy. Over the years, I have had the assistance of my junior colleagues at the office who have ably assisted me in my matters. The majority of them joined right out of college and have left the firm after being part of it for a considerable amount of time and are doing well for themselves. They are spread across litigation, corporate, in-house and one of them is even a Judge in the Trial Court. The moment a brief is received, a short note is prepared on the facts of the case and the issues involved by my colleagues which is followed by a preliminary discussion post which tasks are assigned. My junior colleagues, over the years, have due to their efforts, handled various stages of a case on their own be it cross-examination, final arguments or arguments on interim reliefs and I am extremely happy to see their progress. As long as the work is process driven and each member of the firm recognises his/her roles and responsibilities, quality and consistency can be maintained effectively. 

    You completed the 40-hour Mediator Training Workshop jointly conducted by OCMC, NLSIU, and ICADR. How has this training influenced your approach to dispute resolution and client management in litigation and ADR matters?

    Honestly, I did the course only because Mediation was a buzzword then. We had a good set of trainers who invested time over two days to teach us all the ins and outs of Mediation. The workshop helped in understanding the essence and effectiveness of the process if done right away. In addition, a key takeaway for me personally was that it helped in shaking off some rusty bits in my approach towards client meetings and helped in having a more nuanced approach towards the same. Considering the explosion of litigation and pendency in the Courts, Mediation is certainly a viable tool that requires a bit more than a nudge in order to make it a preferred dispute resolution mechanism. The Mediation Act and the setting up of the Mediation Association of India are steps in the right direction.

    You have been actively involved in arbitration and other ADR mechanisms. How do you perceive the growing importance of ADR in India’s legal ecosystem, and what role does it play in your firm’s overall strategy?

    Arbitration as a dispute resolution mechanism has evolved over the years. Despite periodic amendments to the law, there is still a substantial portion of the process and provisions in the Act where there is Court intervention. Some developments such as fixing a timeframe for disposal, restricting the scope for appeal etc. have helped in speeding the process to some extent, however India as a destination for Arbitration still has a long way to go. There is definitely hope though. I recently attended an Arbitration conference in Mumbai and was pleasantly surprised at the interest shown by arbitrators and academicians from outside India regarding developments related to Arbitration Law in India. Online Dispute Resolution has also taken off in a big way in India and we are seeing multiple ODR platforms opening up. The impetus for Arbitration can also be seen as recent as this month when the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has announced the setting up of an International Arbitration Center in Vishakapatnam. On the flipside, Arbitration is still considered as a closed door club where only the rich can have proper access to the process by engaging the top lawyers in the country. This is due to the fact that the costs involved are steep and out of reach for most small and medium businesses who as a result continue to prefer the traditional litigation route despite its anomalies. The MSME Act and the Commercial Courts Act have provided some succour to these small and medium businesses with regard to speedy disposal of disputes. ADR as mechanisms are definitely required considering the docket explosion in Courts however they do need refinement on some key aspects. 

    Clearing the Advocate-on-Record examination is a significant professional achievement. Could you share your preparation journey, the challenges faced, and how this qualification has impacted your practice at the Supreme Court?

    As is with a few events that have occurred in my life, taking up the AoR exam was on a whim since a friend of mine had also decided to take it up. Despite having a decent practice in Bangalore in all of those years, I had never set foot in the Supreme Court for any matter and it irked me to an extent. I blame myself partly for having become too comfortable with my work in Bangalore to think of expanding my horizons. The Covid-19 pandemic was the time that curiosity got the better of me and since there was not much else to do, I decided to take a crack at the exams. Considering the mandatory 1 year training had to be done during the time of the pandemic, it involved a lot of self-study and listening to lectures online. To an extent, the years of practise prior to taking up the exam also helped me greatly since I had the benefit of practical exposure in the Courts. The most important tip I would say is that one would necessarily have to practice writing regularly since each paper is 3 hours and the questions require you to write a fair bit depending on the marks allotted for each of them. Overall, if one has put in his/her time in keeping themselves updated on the law and has been observant in the Courts, it would go a long way in making the exam relatively easier. Clearing the exams certainly was a high point in my career and it opened the portals of the Supreme Court to me. I have been blessed that in a period of about 3 years of becoming an AoR, I have handled a handful of matters in the Supreme Court that I have argued myself. Having a taste of all three Courts that is Trial Court, High Court and Supreme Court has provided me with the opportunity to further sharpen my tools since each Court mandates a different manner and approach towards putting forth one’s case. 

    You have authored articles published in the Karnataka Law Journal and SCC. How do you view the importance of legal writing, publication, and thought leadership in shaping the career of a practicing advocate?

    I assume writing, teaching etc. are inevitable extensions for a lawyer. At some point, the thought of publishing one’s views on a legal issue arises. At the same time, writing heavily tests your skills in presenting your thoughts in a sublime yet easily comprehensible manner. It involves hard labour since once you’ve zeroed in on a topic, you need to sift through copious amounts of literature right from commentaries, articles, case laws, online lectures etc. and condense the same into as minimal words as possible, in simple english, without compromising on the essence of the topic. Every lawyer at some point ought to give writing a shot since it not only enhances knowledge on the subject but also provides fellow lawyers/readers with an opportunity to ponder upon and debate on the same.

    With extensive appearances before various courts, tribunals, and authorities in Bangalore, what has been one of the most challenging matters for you?

    It would be difficult to pick a single matter since each matter comes with its own set of challenges and nuances. I would admit though that once you handle a few matters on a specific area of law, the briefs that you receive thereafter become easier to handle. For any lawyer, the most challenging matter would be the first matter that he/she handles in each Court/Tribunal since each of them require different approaches right from drafting the petitions/responses to processes involved to the submissions that have to be made. The majority of the lawyers would find the first appearance/submission in Court nerve-wrecking even if it is as small as seeking an adjournment or a passover. Likewise the first full-fledged submission, be it arguments on an interim application or final arguments or the first cross-examination to be conducted would be equally challenging. 

    Having built a diverse and successful practice, what advice would you offer to young lawyers aiming to excel in litigation, real estate, or multidisciplinary legal practice while taking on leadership roles early in their careers?

    As cliché as it may sound, the profession extracts a lot out of you. It requires a lot of dedication and continuous upskilling of your craft. Litigation is a marathon where the efforts that one puts in during the initial years yield results in the long run. One must keep themselves appraised with the latest developments not only in law but events happening around the country and the world. I would recommend freshers to dabble in as many different kinds of matters that one can do in the first few years before attempting to set out on focussing on niche areas. Thousands of lawyers graduate every year hence it is necessary that you start identifying and fine-tuning your core competence and work on your shortcomings. The profession, though unforgiving, is equally rewarding over time when results will bring in the expected monetary dividends as well in addition to recognition. Occasional slip-ups are part and parcel however what matters is that you learn from them and don’t repeat it. As regards leadership roles, I would suggest that you find a good mentor/senior to guide you the first few years and then plunge into having your own practice. It is important to find a good footing before venturing on your own. While I did not have a particular person who I could call a mentor, I have vastly benefitted from observing and interacting with multiple seniors and juniors in the profession alike and this is also something that one must inculcate since healthy conversations provide you with new perspectives. 

    What is the guiding philosophy or motto that has consistently inspired you throughout your journey? How has it shaped your approach to the profession, and what vision do you hold for your future practice?

    For me Shiva & Co. Advocates is an homage to my family who have been there for me every step of the way and allows me to be focussed on my career. Having a spirit of never giving up builds that drive and focus that you need to get far in the profession. One should also have the hunger to succeed at all times and strive to be better every single day. Needless to say honesty, loyalty and integrity are a fundamental and integral part of the profession and helps you go a long way yielding long-term dividends. This profession is not a race but a marathon. These are some principles or philosophies that have helped me along the way. As for my vision for the future, I am a firm believer in taking things one day at a time and giving it my fullest, the results are a mere formality. 

    Get in touch with Ramakrishnan S –

  • Blending Advocacy, Strategy, and Technology in Modern Litigation – Kunal Sinha, Independent Litigation and Dispute Resolution Counsel.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    With over eight years of experience appearing before the Supreme Court of India, the Delhi High Court, and various tribunals, you have had a diverse legal journey. Given all that, when did your interest in law first develop? What inspired you to choose this field, especially considering that law was not always a highly sought-after career?

    Yes, absolutely. I think if I have to go back in time, it is around my high school and why I chose law. I had a keen sense of justice. I wanted to do the right thing, stand up for what’s right. More than anything, I was also, I believe, influenced by a lot of novels and movies. It would instill a lot of pride in me when I saw a lawyer really fighting for justice on screen, you know, things like those.

    So those were the points which sort of nudged me in this direction to explore more about it. Later on, I always had an inherent attraction towards psychology. I used to read a lot of Sigmund Freud and criminal psychology and other things, just out of interest. And somehow, at that time, I think especially around the time when I was graduating high school, things were really looking up. A lot of law schools were opening. Especially, what really I think made a difference in my life personally is that around that time Jindal Global Law School really came up, and I was really in awe reading about it. And so Jindal sort of pulled me in this direction.

    I also cleared the CLAT exam. I hope it’s the same exam now. And so I cleared one of these NLUs. And you know, the first week I was like, no, I’m going to drop out of law, because it brought me back to the things which I hated the most: monotony. The way it was taught there in the government institution was a lot of just reading out things. The professor would come and everybody would start taking notes, and I was like, what is happening? Why can’t we just share the notes online or come to what’s important?

    Maybe talk about law. Talk about how you apply law instead of just everybody copying the exact same thing which the professor narrates. I found it extremely useless, the way of teaching, the traditional way of teaching. Then I moved to Jindal Global Law School, and I was really impressed by the way they were teaching.

    It was a lot of hypothetical, research-oriented, open-book examinations, no note-taking. Notes were up to you, how you wanted to take them. There would be slides shared after class, so you already had everything that had been taught to you. So a lot of technologically advanced ways of teaching, which I think mirrored a lot of universities abroad, and we had a lot of faculty from abroad as well. So it was just all those mixes of things which made me understand law, and that initial attraction happened, that pulled me into the career. It wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for my alma mater.

    And especially the way technology was used, and the break from monotony of just remembering case laws, citations, or sections. I mean, we had open-book exams, so all the questions were very hypothetical. I would just conclude this by saying that it’s a mix of a lot of legal dramas I saw in movies, novels, inclination towards criminal psychology, and a contribution of the university. All of them played a role.

    Strictly from a point of view of going to university for a job, I think that wasn’t my intention. I really liked it. And my family, we come from a sort of background where engineering plus MBA is equal to an IT job, something like that. So it was a tried and tested path for success. You try to do IIT, then IIM, and then you get a great job, then you move to the US, and you settle. That was sort of the ladder in which my family saw success. So this was really a breaking-tradition sort of thing for me to do law.

    From breaking traditions at home to experiencing a diverse environment in your law program, do you think this influenced the diversity in your practice as well? When you interact with peers or colleagues and notice the differences in approach or understanding, how do you encourage and motivate yourself in such situations? Additionally, how have you brought the learnings from your alma mater into your practice, and how have you implemented these experiences in running your own law firm?

    Again, it’s very difficult to word it in a few sentences, but I would say it’s a contribution of a lot of things. Let’s say, the first limb of your question about my colleagues, I would say that all my colleagues have been extremely, extremely smart, winners of different moot courts and all when we were in university.

    So, a lot of friends and everything. I think the difference which I saw was that they had a more structured way of growing in their profession. And a lot of structured internships, a lot of structured interviews to get a job and everything.

    Well, I wanted my early twenties to be about exploration. So, that way I differentiated from my friends. It’s definitely better to have more structured planning and a more concrete way of progressing in a career than just going out there in the world and just seeing what comes your way.

    So definitely, I think when I was just in law school, I think every year, like the first year I would want to be a corporate lawyer, second year I would want to be something else. So I could never really have a static thing in my mind. What happened was during the internships, I interned with IndusLaw, ITC, different places in different capacities.

    And I enjoyed the Patiala House Court trial matters the most. While talking to you, I think a lot of self-reflection is happening. And I think, again, the answer is monotony. So every day you end up learning something new, interacting with newer clients.

    So that way I got pulled towards litigation. It wasn’t my first preference in law school because I wanted to get a more stable income career and everything. So a lot of good fortune to have landed in chambers where I was not treated just like a junior or just like a person who does research.

    All the seniors I have met were very, very good mentors. And I think spending time as a mentee during those formative years is so important and depends on your luck as well to fall in these kinds of chambers. But that person can really pull you up and teach you a lot, or you can just do a dedicated task every day.

    And you may not grow at the same speed as somebody whose mentor really wants to help. So what I really realized is that a lot of your growth is not just merit, it’s a lot of relationship building. How you come across to your mentor, how much trust he has in you. So this trust starts from very basic things, like if your senior has asked you to come to court at nine and you are there at 8.45 every day, every time, you never miss a date. Little things really make a big difference. And then they start trusting you with bigger cases, start telling you to handle clients yourself. So a lot of my experience and confidence came because of my seniors who handheld me in different areas.

    So that being said, while you were establishing your career, how soon did you decide that you would go for independent practice? Because there is a lot of planning that goes in, even when you are working with or for someone, you start planning for that. So what was that particular reason or maybe what kind of thought went into deciding this factor so early in your career that you wanted to have your independent practice?

    So it was just, let’s say, more like a breakfast conversation. One of the designated seniors, now she’s a very good lady lawyer in the Supreme Court, and what she told me was that you can very well be a part of the chamber, we’ll refer you cases, you do that, do my case, and time will fly and you’ll be in your forties and you’ll still be here.

    She said, take the leap, ask your seniors to refer you cases. Open up your thing, and instead of spending time with us, go and pitch to the government, PSUs, or other places. Spend your time pitching and not in the way of asking for a job, but more like getting an empanelment and an association.

    And she said that associations never die. You’ll always be our friend in this community, but what really matters is that you tend to be comfortable. So once you’re comfortable, you might as well reach your forties, and there won’t be a day dedicated like, okay, this day he’s getting independent. So she was like, if you’re just waiting for that spark or that amazing muharat or something like that, that day is not going to happen, and you just take the leap now. And the best time to take a leap is when you have certain savings, I think.

    So you have a little bit of savings, you know you can survive for the next six months. Take the leap. Most likely, in six months, you won’t be that profitable. But these things only start coming into action when you really go independent. And all these seniors, they were also reminiscing the days they chose to be independent.

    And she said that there were times that she used to cry because she couldn’t pay the rentals or the fees of the clerk. But she held herself strong. She managed, pushed through it. And again, a lot of focus on relationship building, meeting people. Those things are very, very important.

    So it was sort of, let’s say, a cushion which I got from my seniors in the initial days. My best clients, the highest-paying clients, were the referred clients from my senior. I don’t think there was any other way I would have reached these clients if it wasn’t for my seniors. So a lot of trust, a lot of confidence they had in me to have referred to me like that.

    Having such mentors and seniors is also very good luck because it is not easy to find one. In very early stages, like when you started, even before that, you worked with several companies and a variety of law firms, both nationally and internationally, in different capacities. What was the most valuable learning that you had during that time? How did that learning shape your understanding not only about the foundation of the law but also to pave the way for the foundation of your independent practice as well? How has that worked out for you, other than your seniors and mentors being in the picture?

    Right, with respect to that, especially, I think the younger you are, it impacts you a lot more, like your first jobs would impact. The first year of working has a lot of impact and then it just gets routine.

    So there is a very significant impact in the initial years. And I think I was working in Toronto with a barrister there, and a lot of things which I incorporated in terms of, I don’t know if it is relevant to this question, but I see a lot of transparency.

    There is a lesser senior-junior gap in these law firms abroad, especially in Toronto, the US culture in general. And there is a lot of opportunity to just meet them without that fear of talking to a very senior person, which I see quite visible in the law firms here, or the kind of practice there is in chambers here in Delhi. So as soon as that comfort level is there, a lot of transparency in terms of what a person will be able to do and what he won’t be able to do is there instead.

    And you can also ask doubts. I think that is also one of the issues which I faced in a law firm here, that comfort level is not built where the associate can just go up to the partner and say, I have this doubt, can you clarify? What exactly do you need from me? What output can I give?

    And that person is working to the best of his ability. And there is this gap, this unsaid hierarchy, where you have to put your head down. So that sort of thing, which I did not experience in the beginning, gave me a lot of knowledge and understanding with respect to speaking directly to the senior and really discussing things with the senior. And I wasn’t just like a cog in the machine, if that is the right metaphor, where you are just doing one part and you are just showing up and doing your thing. That freedom, that open-door policy, is something which I experienced early on and I really incorporated that. Other than that, a lot of things like, I think somewhere in India, we have this colonial, British-era, archaic way of writing judgments, or these judgments which are often published and all that.

    It is so complex. It is far away from the comprehension of a layman. And I feel a certain level of clarity and predictability and structure, which I learned there, and I found it missing here. So I tend to incorporate that in whatever I can do at present in my small office.

    I try to incorporate things which I learned of transparency and making your clients understand their petitions and not get swayed away by fancy legal lingo. Especially when discussing contracts and everything, I try to really simplify for the person who is sitting in front of me, for the client, and even how I would present myself in court would also be a lot simpler. I wouldn’t just go around beating around the bush with respect to fancy words and everything. So this is something which I have incorporated.

    You have also been empanelled with the Punjab National Bank and Central Warehousing Corporation, where you regularly handle high-stake commercial and civil disputes. What kind of challenges do you see or face while managing these disputes, keeping in mind that you work for the government sector there? And there are multiple stakeholders who are also involved, so you have to take care of all the sides related to that particular challenge. So in these kinds of disputes, how do you work around them and how do you convince or formulate a strategy for such high-stake issues?

     Like most of the government PSUs I have worked in,  there have been times I’ve been on the other side. I would really think that we have to be very, very pro solution oriented and going through litigation is tedious.  The government doesn’t really want that.

    They want solutions, they want settlements. A person as a lawyer, one’s duty is not to just be very good at presenting yourself in the court. It’s to have that intention, to be solution oriented, to tell the people responsible that this is the realistic judgment.

    This is the realistic order we are about to get or we’ll get in future. And this is where we are.   So why not just try to get to a solution now instead of waiting for the court to take its due time to come to an order. So especially with all these government PSUs, my intention is to have an arbitration clause. 

     Their intention also, it reflects that they want to avoid litigation, they want to go into arbitration. They want to have quick redressal,  and as a lawyer, as their panel counsel, my job is to ensure that  the least amount of litigation happens and we can come to an understanding at the earliest moment.

    Thanks for sharing those insights. So when we started the conversation, you talked about data privacy and other aspects, and your background is also in data protection and privacy management, along with the training in Canada and Europe. How do you see the kind of evolving landscape for the Indian DPDP Act and where do you see that we stand when we compare these kinds of acts, especially the new technology-driven acts around the world and what India is doing? What kind of difference do you see, and how do you make sure that you practice it in the best format possible, keeping in mind your international clients as well?

    Well, I really think our act mirrors and reflects the GDPR, which is in Europe, and a lot of concepts are there. So very, very similar, very progressive. But just coming to the ground reality, I think this conversation should be more reflective of what really happens.

    And in our practice, what I have seen is a lot of sharing of documents within law firms, within lawyers, through WhatsApp, through emails. So one should be really, really careful with all that, about sharing confidential information, even amongst our peers.

    And first, that cultural shift has to be there to really understand that there will be consequences. In general conversations, I see a lot of lawyers talk in the cafeteria, talking about their cases. One has to be very, very careful not to disclose your clients, not to disclose anything personal, or not even say something from which a person can really predict who I am speaking about.

    So that cultural shift has to be there with respect to privacy, and I think that is missing. Also, the way our websites are made, or our shopping websites are made, or any website for that matter, it is not humanly possible to read the cookie, the privacy policy, etc.

    So really, there is a great disbalance. You can take consent from a person on a 300-page document within one second, and a person just has to click OK. It is not humanly possible to read 300 pages before entering a website. So again, regulation has to come from the side of the government or from an authority, which we are doing, because it is not a contract between equals.

    Because if you are one big corporation, you have so much power. You have great lawyers to draft these contracts, and you expect a layman who is buying maybe a golf club, and then he will have to sign these pages, to just click OK. In a way, it is implied consent to accepting their policies.

    So there is definitely a lot of disbalance. And what I have seen is that I go to a shop and they ask for your number so easily, like it is nothing, like I have to give it. They don’t even bother with your consent.

    If you need the bill, you need to give the number. I am like, what kind of a relationship is this? You are putting pressure that if I need the bill, I need to give you the number, and then the number is just available out there, and you will be getting random calls and promotions.

    So where do we draw the line? Why don’t we have that power as consumers to say no, to say to the company that, okay, forget me, erase my data, whatever you have on me? These provisions are there, but to what extent are we really incorporating them and to what extent are we really educating the consumers about them?

    I mean, there is a huge gap. And I think as consumers, we are on the losing end of this battle. The way private data is shared, I think everybody would have experienced talking amongst their friends about a certain product and then seeing the advertisement of that online all of a sudden.

    So who is listening to what? To what extent is our data being shared? There is a lot of gray area in this, and there is absolutely a lack of transparency and a huge imbalance of power between us and the technology, the people out there who want the data. So regulation has to come from the government, from the authorities, so that there is some fear in the people or in the corporations or technology-related companies to be careful with the data.

     So true that we should be aware of our privacy as well as the child’s privacy. Nobody talks about child rights either, which is something absolutely missing from what we are doing, although it is there in the act. But if we are not aware of our own privacy, then how are we going to be inspired by child rights and other aspects.

     Absolutely. I think that it is just that the act, that legislation has to reflect or be incorporated in societal culture. And there’s seriously a big gap when it comes to that.

    Everything, even if you visit somebody’s apartment these days, they need your phone number, data, everything to let you in. And then you have been profiled. And you don’t know who’s buying this profile. How many times have you visited the hospital? Maybe the insurance company is buying the profile.

    So there’s a lot of sharing of data which a person has not expressly consented to. Consent can be skewed in a way that you click okay on a cookie policy or something like that and then, in a way, legally the companies are protected. But is it really a balanced contract?

    I don’t think so. The consumers, the regular people, have been taken for a ride.

    Keeping all this kind of technological advent and the kind of issues that arise with it and the regulations that are required, you have extensively worked in this field as well. How do you keep yourself ahead of the times and learn about all these things? Where do you learn from? What kind of research do you do around this, and what will be your advice to the younger generation who are entering this particular field in this specifically technologically advanced era? Things have changed before COVID and after COVID, the kind of world we are living in. So how do you see yourself, your practice, your firm, and how do you see the young generation learning from it?

     Right at the outset, I would say the old schoolers, the law firms, are hesitant. Even today they are very non-AI, they have these internal policies, but AI is so powerful. It’s not so easy to just reject it outright. The more realistic thing will be to adopt it and regulate it.

    And I think the younger generation, we know that you are using AI, we know that you are using it for research and drafting and whatnot. So there doesn’t have to be shame in it. Be outright. Be transparent with your bosses and professors and say that this is the kind of research you’ve collated, and as long as you’re using a tool, do good work.

    That’s what matters. As long as that tool is not misused to the extent of plagiarism, I think it’s absolutely fine. One should adopt it. I have been using AI tools for my scheduling. So imagine earlier if you typed so-and-so versus the state, versus the case number, et cetera.

    Now I can just, I have this app. I can just update my data, say put it up in my calendar for so-and-so date. So everybody’s using it and younger people are using it. It’s a great tool. So imagine going through a contract of 200 pages and you really want to understand if there are any loopholes, what exactly the termination conditions are.

    For instance, if you just go to the termination clause, there will be clauses talking about termination. But you need to really holistically understand the contract because a lot of times these clauses have a bearing on each other.

    And a lot of times these clauses are extensions of each other. So you cannot read these clauses in isolation. Let’s say one person uses AI to really understand the termination clause, or let’s say whatever period, indemnity clause in totality, and see how it assists you.

    So use AI like an assistant. You wouldn’t put your assistant’s work directly to the client. You’ll ask a paralegal to help you out and then filter things out for you, and then you apply your legal mind to it and then take it ahead. So as long as you’re using it as a paralegal or an AI agent, it’s fine.

    It’s absolutely fine. There’s no shame around it. I know my partners are really upset because of some interns who used AI and found these AI-hallucinated case laws, which do not exist. And this I’m talking about in some tier-one law firm.

    So it is concerning, but use it as an agent. If, let’s say, your intern brings you a case law, you don’t just directly sign it, right? You would go to SCC Online, a more legitimate sort of legal resource, and cross-check it. But, in essence, I would just like to say be adaptable.

    See how the situation is changing. Very soon there won’t be a lot of paralegals. As a job, it may become obsolete. Stenographers may become obsolete. So be realistic. There is an aspect of what’s morally correct and what’s not. Let’s not go there at the moment.

    But what’s real is that yes, jobs are going to move, a lot of clerical jobs will go away. So be mindful of that and use this as an opportunity to do really good legal work. Be better than your seniors because they didn’t have these tools. Now your senior would’ve taken a day to read a contract.

    You can do it much faster and try to do the law analytical stuff because your clerical stuff is taken care of. So use it like you have hired an intern or a junior paralegal and then be the person who vets everything before forwarding it to the court or client.

     Thank you for talking about all these aspects of AI and how to use those kinds of tools for your own benefit and for your work’s benefit. It has been a very enriching conversation with you where you have talked about your understanding and the way your seniors have helped you, all of it hopefully is going to help our learners to understand how they should pave their way in being not only first generation lawyer, but I would say first generation using technology at this level because this is something which is absolutely new for legal fraternity, so thank you for this conversation.

    Just adding one last thing with respect to the AI, it’s bridging the gap. Imagine if nobody has the excuse now that I do not have good professors. I do not have a good education, my college isn’t good enough.

    You have these sources, you can get access to a lot of great sources online, so there is no excuse now. A level playing field has been made because of AI and technology. So you can be anyone, you can be a first-generation or third-generation lawyer. Now the third-generation lawyers have their own challenges.

    Being under the shadow of someone, someone a great lawyer sometimes. So that kind of sometimes limits the third or the fourth-generation lawyer. So a lot of these seniors, which I know, have sent their kids to absolutely different chambers.

    Far away from their chamber so that they learn to stand on their own feet. I see a lot of LinkedIn posts about first-generation, second-generation differences. It’s not as rosy as people think to be a third-generation lawyer or a fourth-generation lawyer. One always has to show merit and everybody, in a sense, is a first-generation lawyer.

    This is not like a food business or a restaurant that, okay, it just came to you. Everybody has to show merit. Everybody has to show their skills to really last in this profession. So, in essence, now that AI is there and other technology, which makes it easier to navigate cases, easier to do research.

    One should learn all that and this is a great time to be a lawyer in a way that now you have a level playing field, you can go against the best.

    Get in touch with Kunal Sinha –

  • “Currently, India’s renewable sector is full of promise with scalability, strong government push, and growing global investor interest.” – Varun Chauhan, Partner at Luthra and Luthra Law Offices India.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    What initially drew you to specialize in banking and finance, given that they are such niche fields? Was law always your first choice, or did your interest evolve over time, and how did your experience at law school shape that journey?

    Law was always my first career choice after school, though I did take a 2.5-year break post-graduation to prepare for the civil services exams. During that time, I also enrolled in a regular post-graduation program in Corporate Laws and Management, which kept me connected with my subjects. While not getting selected did dampen the morale, I always had a stronger plan B to practice law. Banking and finance, however, happened by accident. I was inclined toward corporate laws, and during my first corporate internship I realized I enjoyed advisory work and project finance diligence more than litigation, which eventually set me on this path.

    In the early phases of your career, you worked with various law firms. What were the key learning experiences that laid the foundation for your practice and deepened your understanding of these niche fields?

    I started my career with a boutique law firm where my seniors gave me the right guidance and also the personal space to grow. That early trust helped me take ownership of matters in the project finance space. It gave me vast exposure in banking and finance and laid a solid foundation for my practice.

    Over the past decade, you have advised several leading financial institutions and banks. From your perspective, what are some of the most common challenges clients face in large-scale finance and infrastructure deals, and what is your approach resolving them?

    The most common challenge clients face is aligning their business targets with regulatory procedures and the internal legal processes of multiple lenders before disbursement. My approach is to simplify the legal risks, break them into practical solutions, and ensure the documents reflect clarity for all stakeholders. This balance builds trust and helps achieve timely closures.

    Project finance and structured finance transactions often involve multiple stakeholders across jurisdictions. What have been the most significant challenges in managing the interests of various parties, including cross-border entities?

    The most significant challenge is reconciling different regulatory and legal regimes while keeping the transaction commercially viable. Coordinating with foreign law counsel and managing across time zones often adds another layer of complexity. Clear communication and early identification of friction points help me act as a bridge between parties without compromising legal safeguards.

    Renewable energy financing is emerging as a key driver of India’s growth. Based on your experience advising on large solar and hybrid renewable projects, what do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges in financing India’s clean energy transition?

    Currently, India’s renewable sector is full of promise with scalability, strong government push, and growing global investor interest. In recent years, I’ve also seen foreign banks gearing up for the Indian renewable market. The major challenges, however, lie in evolving regulations, land/title issues, and tariff uncertainties.

    Having worked extensively on both real estate and infrastructure finance matters, what are some of the key differences and unique legal considerations that distinguish these two sectors?

    While both real estate financing and infrastructure financing (like roads, ports, hotels, etc.) follow a broadly similar financing structure, real estate deals revolve heavily around title diligence of land and immovable properties. There are also RERA-specific nuances, particularly in the working of escrow accounts, which operate very differently from a standard infra sector financing deal. Each comes with its own unique risks, and navigating them requires sector-specific expertise and tailored solutions.

    Looking back at your career so far, what has been the most rewarding or intriguing high-value transaction or case you have worked on, and how did you navigate its challenges?

    Some of the most rewarding matters for me have been InvIT financing deals, which often involve complex funding structures at the InvIT level and on-lending to multiple SPVs. These transactions require balancing the interests of lenders with the operational realities of the SPVs. Navigating those complexities through clear structuring and negotiation has been both challenging and extremely fulfilling.

    Considering the demanding nature of your work, how do you strike a balance between professional commitments and personal life, and what practices help you avoid burnout?

    I believe it’s equally important to spend time with friends and family. I am also lucky to have a life partner who understands the demands of this profession, and she is truly a blessing. We follow a strict rule of avoiding work on weekends. Of course, there are times when the team has to deliver under strict timelines, and being there to support them with execution and strategy is non-negotiable. I also try not to over-commit to clients—discussing timelines with the team beforehand ensures realistic commitments and gives them a sense of inclusion.

    What has been your guiding philosophy throughout your career, and how has it helped you grow and manage challenges effectively?

    My guiding philosophy has been to stay curious, adaptable, and solution-oriented. Law is dynamic, and no two transactions are alike – embracing that mindset has helped me grow and navigate challenges. I believe consistency and integrity go a long way in building lasting professional relationships. Looking ahead, I see every transaction not just as a legal exercise but as an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and contribute to India’s evolving financial and infrastructure landscape. For me, the real reward lies in building lasting relationships and helping clients achieve their goals with clarity and confidence.

    Finally, what advice would you give to young lawyers aspiring to build a career in banking and finance law, particularly those who wish to specialize in real estate finance? What resources would you recommend?

    My advice would be to first build a strong foundation in contract and corporate law, and stay updated on RBI and sectoral regulations. This profession demands patience and consistency, so juniors should avoid being impatient and focus on diligence. Stay curious and never hesitate to ask questions, don’t let the fear of being judged stop you from clarifying crucial aspects of the practice. Practical exposure through internships and resources like legal commentaries or transaction-focused case studies are invaluable.

    Get in touch with Varun Chauhan –

  • Inside the practice of a First generation Litigator & Supreme Court AOR – Gagan Narang, Partner at Triumvir Law.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Let’s start with your remarkable, successful career of being an Advocate on Record and partner at Triumvir Law. Looking back, what was the initial motivation behind pursuing the career in a law and was there any specific driving factor that you chose this field?

     So to start with, my parents, my family is a family of professionals and that is where the work ethic or the drive to be a professional.  Both my parents are doctors. Having said that, I was always into multiple different domains. I was always multifaceted, having multiple interests. Was involved in quizzing, debating, in fact was involved in the equity markets, had an interest in the equity markets in very early years as well. And that is where somehow the journey towards law shaped in, because I understood law to be a profession wherein you’ll get exposure to all kinds of environments, all the kinds of businesses, all the kinds of different facets of the world where every case in the legal field is a new case. Every case is unique in its own way, and that is the advantage that the legal profession gives. It keeps  things interesting, it keeps things fresh. That’s how my career shaped towards law in the first place.

    Also, I was kind of a rebel as a kid, did not wanna get into medicine because of those reasons as well.

    Thank you for openly sharing your decision to not pursue medicine despite your parents being doctors. You made it to Gujarat National Law University that shaped your legal and business acumen? Starting with a top law firm in Mumbai to now leading your own litigation practice in New Delhi, how was that journey? As a first-generation lawyer, what challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

     So, let’s put the first generation thing first. Multiple times in the process there have been days when you think that maybe a profession in the medical field would’ve been better because obviously there would’ve been some legacy that I would’ve carried. But having said that, the work ethic that was instilled or the work ethic that was put into me and the way I’ve seen my parents go about their days right from 8 in the morning to maybe 11 in the night. I’ve seen them working and that’s where the idea of hard work that is required in your professional field came into picture, and that is probably what helped in getting into the GNLU, that is Gujarat National Law University as well. 

    Everything basically came in a flow, so I started off at LKS – Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan and it was through the college, got college placement, went to Bombay, did tax advisory for a year or so. Tax was considered to be the toughest field of law that existed while we were in college and even today in practice I see there is a niche that’s been created about tax. And a big advantage that my experience that LKS gave me was that I understood probably what people or what lawyers don’t even want to get into because it’s a very specific, very niche field. A criminal lawyer is still comfortable doing civil law. I’ll not say anything is easy or tough, but with due respect to everyone, there are multiple lawyers dealing in different domains that do not actually want to get into tax.

    Working at LKS gave me that exposure and gave me that understanding that the toughest, probably the perceived toughest facet of law can also be understood, just by applying yourself to it. Something about GNLU, GNLU is one of those unique law schools which allows you to study multiple domains of law. So there is a BBA LLB which I pursued then there is a B.Com LLB that is going on. There is a BSc LLB  as well. There is a BA LLB, normally law schools have BA LLB, BBA LLB so they have multiple facets. Additionally, there are various co-curricular  activities, there are Interdisciplinary schools such as Center for Sports Law, Center for Public International Law. So there were a lot of opportunities that came my way thanks to these centers and thanks to these programs that the college provided. While pursuing all these courses, you always have the option to learn more, to understand more assets and not just understand the law in itself, but understand various domains as well.

    That is where the institute helped me a lot, besides, GNLU is always very proactive in moot court competitions, in debates, in parliamentary debates in MUNs as well. So that is another facet which helped in developing that personality, the exposure was always there. No matter where I was sitting in a remote corner in the Western part of the country, the exposure was always there to learn more and gain more knowledge in the journey.

    You have been representing clients both nationally and internationally in arbitrations, including obviously the cases that you have represented in Abu Dhabi, which was a SAP company in an international arbitration.

    What were some significant challenges that you encountered during those cross- border arbitrations and what unique difficulties do you see while you are doing those cross-border arbitrations and the way you strategize to overcome them?

      Cross-border arbitrations are a unique ballgame. When we understand a domestic arbitration or when we understand the way arbitration is practiced in India, mostly the arbitrators or mostly the tribunals are either retired judges or some significant authoritative figures who know the system that is applicable in a domestic arbitration very well. The system that is the Indian law very well. When you come to an international arbitration, the ballgame shifts completely. First and foremost, the arbitrators mostly, up to a certain extent, are mostly lawyers themselves.

    More importantly, these arbitrators mostly are from neutral backgrounds and neutral jurisdiction. So they per se might themselves not know the procedures that are involved in the applicable procedural law or the substantive law. They might not be privy to the substantive law in the first place.

    It becomes very important for the practitioner, for the council to specify, to take the tribunal along with them in the substantive law and in the procedural law because the arbitrator sitting might not correct in a domestic arbitration. An arbitrator might correct you if you’re going wrong in the procedure at least. An international arbitrator, the arbitrator themselves might be new or might be knowing the substantive legal part of it less, and therefore you need to take the arbitrator along with yourself. The second and more important facet is there is always a language or a communication gap that will exist. There is a specific way in which English is pronounced by us, which is Indian English. When you’re sitting in an international arbitration, the accent changes, the pronunciation changes and the understanding of the accent also changes. So it is very important to not just be clear in what you’re saying or what you’re thinking, but also to articulate your thoughts in a much better and a much simpler manner so that it’s conveyed properly to the opposite party, to the arbitrator, to everybody.

    This becomes an important aspect there. It is very important to be a very good listener in an international arbitration as well, because you have to be on your toes to decide your strategy later on, and for that you need to understand what your opposite party is saying or what is falling from the tribunal as well. These are the three observations that go besides the legal parts of it, but coming to the legal parts.

    The challenges always exist because when you’re doing an international arbitration, the domain entirely shifts. Now, the law that you might be dealing with, the substantive law that you might be dealing with is not the local law of your in-line that you practiced since whenever you started your legal education.

    So what happens is that you need to be very aware, you need to be very thorough and very well researched about the laws that you’re dealing with. So for example, the arbitration that you were talking about, the local law was of Abu Dhabi or United Arab Emirates. Now, a lot of facets came from Muslim law. A lot of facets came from Islamic law, per se, Sharia law per se. And when we initially got on to it we were not very privy to it. It did not come naturally to us, so we also had to go through a lot of details. We had to also go through the law in many details. Had it been a common law country, I would’ve said it still comes naturally because following common law, you know, the flow, you know the logic behind things.

    But when it comes to a country where the procedure, where the substantial law is entirely different from yours, comes, you need to be very thorough and very well researched in that aspect as well. So these are the few challenges that you face now.

    You have an expertise which spans through commercial litigation, international arbitration, as well as white collar disputes, which are often considered very high risk, and obviously confidentiality becomes a very important corner store for white collar crime.

    What kind of key factors do you focus on while you are dealing with these kinds of areas of law, which are not only very, very confidentiality centric, as well as privacy centric , because confidentiality is for the whole case, and privacy is for the parties. So how do you deal with all these?

    What I basically focus on, whichever field it is, is to break it down to the simplest molecule possible, to the simplest form of a thing possible. And when you come to white collar and you try to break it down, as I see there are two elements involved.

    There is one, a business or a company transaction that is happening and a company’s interest that is happening. And the other aspect is basically the criminal laws that are applicable to the same. So when we look at a white collar crime, it is a company doing a monetary transaction wherein the financial interests of the company are involved and maybe some element of criminal law to achieve those financial goals.

    When you are defending a company, or the corporate or the financial transaction, it is simpler because the transaction may be good, may go in your favor, the transaction may go against you but what is at stake is only the monetary aspect of it, which while is important to the company’s interest. Does not paramount the personal interest of the directors or the stakeholders sitting in the company. When you deal with white collars, the parameter expands and the personal aspects become more important because there could be a lifting of corporate will, there are criminal laws involved, so there will always be a liability or a penal liability that can arise in the form of imprisonment, in the form of fines, penalties on the directors, on the shareholders, on key managing personnel as well.

    What is important in the first place is to understand that most of these people, if there is an element or if there is an allegation of a crime that is alleged might not…, the boundaries of law are so thin and so bleak that they might not themselves know when they have actually transcended the boundary.

    Something which might be very obvious or something which might be very simple for someone, that person might have transcended the boundary a bit, and it becomes important in the first place to explain in a very normal, in a very conversational manner, without losing the confidence of the client, that there might be an issue or where the issue first or foremost arises.

    Obviously there will be transactions where there is a willful default and there is a willful transaction. But when there is not, it’s important to explain to the client where that particular transaction has happened. In other transactions, there might just be that there is an allegation, but there is actually no substance to the allegation and it becomes important to explain considering the Indian judicial sphere and considering the pendency in India that there will be light at the end of the tunnel. There will be justice at the end of the day. And these are procedural regulatory issues that will be handed in due course of time just by putting the best foot forward or the most transparent foot forward.

    One more aspect that is important to be understood is.

    Normally when a person thinks of crime, the person automatically becomes defensive. Even  as individuals, when these clients are in front of you, it becomes very important to get the truth or the exact truth out of them. So you need to be very careful with what you ask. Sometimes they’ll not tell you the entire thing because either they want to hide something or they don’t consider it to be important themselves.

    So it is important for you to ask the right questions, to get the right answers, and then formulate the strategy accordingly.

    In addition to all these kinds of legal responsibilities, you also have developed business for yourself, administrative tasks that you have taken up, and you are managing your Delhi office as well.

    How do you manage all of this and over the years, how has your role evolved in each of the segments of the organization? What kind of experiences are there in those challenges that you have overcome and the roles that you have kept on changing over time?  

     The challenge is an everyday thing. It’s still a challenge. It continues being a challenge, and I think it’ll continue being a challenge forever. And that’s the best part of it because every day when you deal with a challenge, you successfully come out of it. You feel you have achieved something which will help you sleep better that night . Having said that, I joined Triumvir Law back in 2021 when it was a smaller organization compared to what we have now, but we were gaining a reputation. The organization was gaining reputation in leaps and bounds back then as well. When I joined, my tasks were cut out very clearly for me, which was to start with making a base for the firm .

    And to also handle the litigation part of it because Anubhav, Akash, my partners were themselves getting overloaded with the kind of work that was coming in that is exactly where Anubhab reached out and asked me to join in, being friends since almost 2015, it was a no-brainer to go ahead. Since I left my firm role in 2018, I had only worked as an advocate. It was more about the legal thing, more about the matters, more about the cases rather than about a firm, rather than about running an organization or rather than about thinking of the business aspect of it. So the first challenge that came into picture and the challenge that keeps on probably repeating every day when I deal with it is to consider it to also be a business, to consider it to also be a profession that you are there to grow, that you’re there to make money, and not just to sit there as an advocate dealing with the legal aspects of it. That’s a dilemma that will always be there because unfortunately in India, what the problem is that legal fees are always considered to be a cost or a liability. So you have to make the client also understand how you become useful to the client in the longer run, and that is the transition that you achieve from an advocate to say a contributing member in a firm and a partner in a firm to bridge that challenge.

    A lot of my time being in courts, being litigating a lot of my time, always went into the court work because that is how court life is. So starting the day at say 10.15, 10 AM or 10.30 in the morning from court, you never know. Your matter might reach in two minutes, your matter might reach in four, six hours at 4:00 PM as well, and a lot of the time is wasted.

    So you have to be very careful how you spend time with increased responsibilities, with the responsibility of building an office, the responsibility of building a base, growing the base in Delhi. Time management has become a key issue. Time management becomes the biggest issue right now, and it’s very important, the way I look at, it’s very important to establish systems for each and everything in place so that almost every exercise is automated to the best possible manner.

    Secondly, it becomes very important to have the right personnel to work with you and develop a team to work with you so that 80% or 60% of your responsibility in one facet is covered by the team. And then obviously you are there to oversee, you are there to manage whatever is required. There will be clients who will always require you to be present on board, but it is important to make the client also understand that the team is good enough or maybe better than yourself to handle the cases themselves as well.

    But you’ll be there whenever you need to be there. Similarly in the administrative part, also in the business development part, it’s important to make the client understand that the primary point of contact will be handy enough and will be a good substitute for me.

    When you have those systems in place, it becomes easier with passage of time and that is what we have seen in bigger firms as well.

    So you have transitioned from so many roles and kept on learning and enjoying every bit of it. While doing so you have also advised on online gaming platforms, obviously, on legal matters and other forms such as digital wallet regulations and RBI licensing.

    Given the kind of nature of the sector and the new challenges that it faces every day, particularly around regulatory compliances, how have you set your agenda of breaking it down again, in your own words to singular molecules and finding those solutions for your clients who are actually involved in these kinds of gaming platforms?

     So sports law or say gaming law is a niche field in law itself, which is still up and coming. Having said that, it’s not something like, say, a tax law, which has entirely a different kind of practice. A sports field or a gaming law field is an interplay of multiple different facets of traditional laws.

    Basically, there will be some element of the company’s law involved there. There will be some corporate advisory involved there. There will be some element of litigation that will be involved there, and there will obviously be regulatory compliances and tax compliances, so on and so forth that are inward.

    For these kinds of transactions when we were handling, the most important part where in the legal bit, the litigation mind came into play was the discourses that the Supreme Court had over a game of chance or a game of skill. So this law had been evolving and is still probably evolving to certain extent, wherein what is considered a game of chance and what is a game of skill, what element of a game of chance will be allowed, what element and to what extent the game of skill will be allowed to say be legalized in a country or be considered legal.

    And there will always be games wherein there will be a mixture of both game of chance and game of skill and the important question to be answered in all of these for all of our clients would’ve been that a particular game that they are proposing mostly and specifically in the online domain.

    Whether that game is a pure game of chance, then obviously the law doesn’t allow it. You have to remove it, you have to either find a way around it or you have to structure it in a manner that there is a level of skill involved. Secondly, if there is a mixture or an interplay of game of chance and a game of skill, then whether that interplay can be put in a manner to state that it is more of a game of skill, and that is why it can be allowed in the country. Having said that, now where the complexity or where the problem becomes multifold is that sports laws or gaming per se, comes into the state list. Now there is a national list, there is a union list, and there is a state list and there are concurrent list.

    So these facets fall under the state list. And every state has different kind of legislations on it. There are states who have legalized or who have allowed certain games. there are states which completely banned even game of challenge and game of skills as well.

    Now when you are dealing with an online platform, the other thing that becomes important is where do these games actually happen? Or which are the platforms that you go on? So even today, if you see an Android Playstore, you’ll not find a game of skill also on an online platform, a game like, I don’t want name, but let’s take an example of a Dream 11 per se

    or My 11 circle, which is currently the IPL is going on My 11 circle is the sponsor for IPL, Dream 11 has been a sponsor for the Indian team, so definitely the operations that they’re involved in are very much legal, considered to be legal in India. However, still Android Playstore does not have the kind of apps there because there are Android policies or regulatory policies which do not allow Android to have those games on their app store. So that is where the lawyer’s role comes into picture, or our role came into picture to understand what are the regulations? Why are the regulations in a manner, if possible, to make the platforms also understand whether these can be allowed or not, or to find a way around them as well.

    And an interesting element that exists in this field is that the tax aspect of this field is still under question. There was a giant casino company in India that has been called by the tax authorities and has been asked to pay taxes on the entire sum that a person gets as winnings and not just the winning aspect itself.

    And if you actually calculate the tax on the entire sum then probably the platform will be left or the company will be left with nothing to show in their books and they might even go bankrupt.

    So this is an interesting evolving element. We’ll have to see where the Supreme Court takes it or where the laws in India take it, probably, there could be some form of government interference there as well, or the government stepping in to allow certain things. These are the evolving aspects of it, but that is where sports law or gaming law is there.

     In India’s evolving legal landscape like with cryptocurrencies being taxed despite not being legal tender, navigating grey areas is key. With your background in both BBA and law, has this unique combination shaped your litigation practice and business development approach? Do you feel that a business degree like a BBA or MBA offers an edge in understanding the commercial aspects of running a legal chamber?

    Has it helped you in strategizing and scaling your practice over the years? And overall, how has this blend of business and law influenced the way you approach the profession today?

    Okay, I’ll start from a personal example, and I know a lot of my friends in the legal fraternity who have been doing that, and probably this will also be a suggestion for all the upcoming lawyers , especially once they go independent.

    When you start and when you have joined a firm and somebody else is paying you a retainer or a compensation.

    And there is a fixed element to it, it becomes easier for you because all you need to do is tell your one savings bank account details to the person that salary or compensation will be transferred there. However, once you go independent or when you’re starting a firm, all of these things, when you’re doing, now, it becomes important for you to understand how a business runs and understand what is the importance of a current account, what is the importance of different business accounts, to separate, as they say, your personal from your professional. When you’re running the practice at a smaller scale, what happens is these lines get blurred a lot. Just like your time, your time also gets blurred a lot. You’re working at your will, so you’re working probably through 24 hours. Anytime, there is no personal time, there is no professional time demarcated.

    But over time, it becomes important for you to demarcate it and it’s better or the best for individuals to understand it in the beginning, get those compliances sorted in the beginning itself where a BBA comes helpful to that is BBA is basically Bachelor of Business Administration.

    You understand business organizations, business setups, very importantly and very clearly in the first place. When you have a clear cut idea, theoretical idea also what a business organization is and how different business systems work, it becomes easier for you to understand what will work for yourself or what idea can be theoretically good for you, and try and implement that practically as well.

    It becomes further more important for you to help yourself understand the client’s requirements or how the client’s organization works as well. When you have that basic idea of how businesses work. Every business might work in a different way. Every corporate client might work in a different way, but you understand where the eventual goal lies, how they distinguish their profits, how a balance sheet is made. From making a balance sheet to arriving at profits and losses to understand where the assets go, where the liabilities go, once you have sorted that out for yourself, it becomes easier for you as a litigator, as well as a corporate advisor to basically get the hang of it.

    Secondly, it plays even a bigger role when you’re in a corporate advisory sector, so supposedly we are advising on a share purchase transaction or an acquisition. Certain elements of the company’s law are very intricately connected with the finance aspects, the business administration aspect.

    And once you have that basic background, it becomes easier for you to explain to your clients also what different forms of  shares are, what are hybrid securities, all of those. And it becomes easier for you also to implement or structurize those transactions for your clients. So that is where the business BBA knowledge comes into picture and helps you with that.

    Keeping all this in mind, you were talking about when you start your own firm or when you work individually, you tend to work even for 24 hours. I would request you to talk a little bit more about the kind of mental health impact that it gives when you are under pressure while developing your litigation practice or developing your own firm. How have you taken care of that particular aspect, given the fact that your parents are doctors?

    And what is your advice to the new entrants who are so desperate in making it within overnight or something like that, that we just have to make our names bigger?

    Just to clarify, when I said 24 hours, I didn’t mean you’re working 24 hours. What I meant was your professional and your personal timings are blurred. Say a person in a job will actually come home, spend time with family, or do something personal, might go to the gym. They have their set patterns as an individual, especially freshly independent, you’ll not have those patterns.

    Or when you’re working to grow an organization at that point of time, you might blur those lines and those patterns. That is why you’ll be working in different domains and that’s what we have done and that’s what we keep doing at Triumvir Law as well. When a case needs us, when a transaction needs us to work overnight, we will still be working overnight.

    However, the attempt will always be, the aim will always be to reduce that kind of work and to form such systems that will help you in the longer run. As a freshly graduate person, as a person who has started an organization or as a person who has just gone independent, it’s easier to do that in the first place and those blurred lines help you in probably maximizing the results for yourself and to an extent satisfying the clients there. However, these will never be sustainable in the longer run. You’ll have added responsibilities. At the initial phase, your number of clients are also restricted. You can give that amount of time to a client where you can give that attention. Once you have gone a bit ahead in your journey, the number of clients will increase and automatically, if you start being available all the time, it’ll become a problem for everybody. Now, how you tackle it in the first place, you make good systems. I started earlier as well. It’s very important to form those systems so that it becomes easier for you in the longer run.

    Once you go ahead, you get, as I said earlier, you get a good team with yourself who can take away the day-to-day load from your shoulder and your inputs are required only when something new crops up in the middle. So that is where in the longer run, preparing the fresher talent in a manner that they can also independently work. They can apply themselves independently, but the work in the system becomes important.

    And most important advice to everybody will be to choose the people that you work with very properly and very wisely. I am blessed to have the kind of people that I work with, the kind of partners, the kind of team that I work with. They ensure that whenever that break is required, somebody’s there to follow up, somebody there to fill in your shoes so that you can take the burnout break. You can always enjoy that rejuvenation and be back at work while somebody’s handling the work as well. That’s the advice. That’s how I saw it in my family. That’s what I see in my partners. That’s what I see around me.

    All of us have some kind of interests, which are beyond the legal sphere. Always work on your interests. You might say a specific sport, you might not be good at it. You might be very good at it, but play that sport. I heard an influencer say this, and I was very impressed by this dialogue.

    It was actually not an influencer. I don’t remember who but yeah, in a podcast I heard this, especially in your twenties and thirties, go to that concert you wanted to go to.

    Attend that cricket match that you want to see, attend that stand-up comedy show that you want to do, whatever is your interest. Follow that as well along with your work because eventually in life you will have to compromise on that as well. So when you have that kind of time, take time out from your professional life that will help you make your professional life better in the longer.

    And although I’m sure after this answer, my partner will be complaining to me that you do nothing of that, but this is what it is.

    Keeping that in mind, I would request you to suggest or rather talk a little bit about how you have transitioned along with the technology because obviously without technology today we would not be having this conversation.

    How do you see the technology has helped you have a better representation, have better way of learning and the kind of disruptive tech that is happening today, especially AI, IOT, blockchain? How have you equipped yourself with the new understanding of this and where do you see that our legal field is moving towards, along with these kinds of technologies that are infiltrating our law fraternity as well?

    Just a disclaimer, I am very bad with modern technology. When I say very bad, I’m trying every day to adapt to more things, but not at the pace where the generations that are coming ahead will be. Having said that, we are trying to do whatever we can to reduce our burden or to reduce our workloads, and that is probably the whole aim of implementing technologies in your daily life or in your professional life. So how we normally do it or how we are trying to do it, to start with was a big transition from those hefty files to basically an iPad and a cloud account where, all your files, all your devices are scanned and stored, so you don’t need to carry those empty files to courts.

    And in the recent past, we have seen the courts also transcend towards promoting. And I have personally seen in court, in the Supreme court before the former chief justice actually asking senior designated lawyers also to follow a practice of reading the briefs on iPad and not on paper files so they can also transcend towards the newer technologies.

    That’s the basic beginning and we are still trying to harness and maximize that sphere. So that is the first place saving a lot of paper. Obviously with our workload, we are only supposed to carry one iPad now and not the entire set of files, so that is where it helps in the first place.

    Secondly, now thanks to the digitization of all the records. And neutral citations present, like the entire databases shifting to technology based data share bases. We are not required to maintain those libraries that were earlier a compulsion. Now they have over time become a luxury of sorts.

    So it is more of an interest or a hobby kind of a thing to maintain that library. Having said that, thanks to the tools that are available and thanks to technology. It’s become much easier for us to operate on devices rather than those volumes or those libraries.

    Just to add what you are saying, we have incorporated an AI platform with us. We are trying to automate the contracts that we do, to basically reduce the amount of time that we spend on it and to get the regularities sorted. That is how AI is transforming for us as well. The regular stuff is always there where we use whatever AI tools are available for say emails or drafting basic things, but in the longer run we are also looking to incorporate AI outputs into our deliverables as well.

    Get in touch with Gagan Narang –

  • “In my view, not every conflict calls for the rigours of litigation, many can be effectively  resolved through dialogue and a planned, structured settlement process.” – Ankita Sarangi, Advocate-on-Record and  IMI Accredited Mediator.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Looking back at your formative years and legal education, what early experiences  shaped your perspective towards law and inspired you to pursue a career in  litigation and dispute resolution? 

    Born and brought up in Delhi, I completed my schooling at DPS RK Puram, studying  from nursery to 12th grade, with the initial years up to Class 5 spent in the junior wing  of the school. 

    I belong to the pre-CLAT era, when each law school conducted its own entrance  examination. At that time, choosing a college also meant carefully evaluating both its  location and the professional opportunities that followed. I had intentionally decided  against taking multiple entrance exams, but a trusted recommendation persuaded me to  attempt the entrance for the National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS).  I was later formally informed that I had successfully cleared the entrance exam and was  eligible to secure admission to NUALS. However, after passing the entrance exam for  Indraprastha University (Amity Law School), I chose to enrol there, as its location in  Delhi-NCR and its ranking in the top ten law colleges in India, were rather significant  factors in my decision at the time. 

    My decision was primarily driven by the fact that Delhi provided a far more conducive  environment for pursuing a career in law, particularly in litigation, which was my area  of interest. However, with the benefit of hindsight, I now believe that institutional  rankings are of limited consequence in the long run, especially for those committed to  a career in litigation since law is a profession that transcends classroom learning and genuine mastery can only be forged through practical application and real-world experience. 

    While the school provided a solid platform, it was the inspiration I drew from my  parents, both of whom had worked with the government and were highly accomplished from an early age, that set a high benchmark for me and encouraged me to take my  academics seriously while also pursuing co-curricular activities such as debates and  beyond. I was always drawn to writing and was made aware that I had a natural ease with language. Outside the school curriculum, I found joy in exploring a variety of non  fiction books and articles, driven by a curiosity to better understand how the world  works. I was particularly drawn to topics in psychology and neuroscience, which still continue to captivate me. I believe this reading has also quietly shaped me in becoming more empathetic, a quality that proves valuable particularly in mediation. I’ve always  found satisfaction in tackling problems and working toward practical solutions, and was  grateful that others felt comfortable seeking my advice. Through helping them resolve  personal conflicts and find common ground, I developed a sincere interest in  Alternative Dispute Resolution. 

    During my academic years, I remained actively engaged in co-curricular activities,  including parliamentary debates, Model United Nations, coupled with several extra  curricular such as taking part in inter-school competitions, winning as a solo singer in  important music competitions as well as inter school level athletics which I believe does give one confidence and discipline while also encouraging prompt, judicious thinking  under pressure, and embrace competition. In my opinion, extra-curricular and co-curricular activities teach early on that winning and losing are both part of the game,  something I came to appreciate through sports and other competitions in these formative years, and which continues to shape my approach as a lawyer. 

    During your time at Law School, you undertook intensive internships with leading  law firms, arbitration centres, and the offices of Additional Solicitor General. How  were they transformative, and how did they influence your career path?

    Internships were not mandatory for students at that time, unlike the current practice in  most colleges, following the BCI notification. The primary reason to pursue them for  me, was to gain exposure to the profession at an early stage. I was very keen on  exploring a wide range of laws, including unconventional areas such as Sports Law and  TDSAT matters, which were not commonly taken up. I enjoyed the process of securing  internships through my own effort which has also helped me become independent. I  actively went for interviews, followed up with offices, and treated the process as a  learning experience in itself. Alongside this, I also participated in many inter-college  and intra-college moot court competitions as a speaker and was fortunate to secure good  positions and awards. After graduating, I have been invited to judge college moot  courts, which often reminds me of my own time as a speaker and participant, recalling  the long hours and sometimes several months of preparation that went into each round.

    One experience from the internship days that stands out for me is when I wanted to  intern with the office of an ex-ASG, which was very coveted, and very few students  would get selected or allowed to intern at the office at a time. I pursued the application  consistently, without using any references, and was ultimately offered the chance to  intern. When he later realized that my family was acquainted with him, he asked why I  had gone through the entire process, but for me, the satisfaction lay in doing it  independently. Similarly, I secured internships at several law firms and at DIAC (at the  time known as Delhi High Court Arbitration Centre), again through persistent  applications and interviews. At DIAC, I gained early exposure to institutional  arbitration and was introduced to how such proceedings are conducted in practice. 

    It’s worth mentioning that all my internships, except one, were unpaid and I never had  any reservations about that. It was generally understood that internships were about  learning rather than stipends; payment, if offered, was considered a bonus, not an  entitlement. The one exception was at a law firm where, at the time of joining, I was  clearly informed that I would be paid a fixed amount for the duration. If an internship  is undertaken mainly or solely for financial reasons, it is important that this be  communicated at the outset, since paid internships carry a very different set of  expectations. Raising monetary demands midway is neither fair to the seniors nor  consistent with professional conduct. Any agreement regarding payment should,  therefore, be clearly confirmed in writing, preferably over mail. 

    Each firm I interned with also gave me insights into its specialized practice areas, which helped me appreciate the finer aspects of the profession and further helped me  develop a sense of independence very early on. I believe internships are extremely  important for law students, as they offer a practical glimpse into what lies ahead after  law school. During my internship, I often worked long hours, staying back even after  the associates had left to complete the work they had assigned, often under strict  deadlines, and was usually among the first to arrive each morning, not with the intention  of being absorbed in the firms, but simply to absorb as much as possible and maximize  the learning experience.

    You began your professional journey assisting the Additional Solicitor General at  the Delhi High Court, where you were exposed to high-profile government  litigation at a very early stage. Soon after, you worked with an Advocate-on Record at the Supreme Court. Looking back, what lessons did you draw from  these formative experiences, and how did they shape your understanding of  appellate practice and prepare you for eventually qualifying as an AOR yourself? 

    Immediately after graduation, I joined as an associate with the then ASG and had the  opportunity to work on high-profile cases, including the “Nirbhaya” case among others. My time in the office gave me practical exposure to handling government matters,  understanding the functioning of such offices, and working in a fast-paced environment  where cases often arrived late in the evening and required the four associates to read  files and prepare briefs within tight deadlines for the next day’s listing, which was quite  demanding and often required working late into the night. While attending meetings  and briefings was an interesting learning experience, starting the career in a designated  senior’s office has its limitations, particularly in drafting, which is an essential skill for  any litigating lawyer. Seeking more substantial drafting experience, I decided to join  an AOR in the Supreme Court with whom I was already familiar. This arrangement  allowed me to pursue my own private practice before lower courts and tribunals part time while working in the office, where I would take initiative to draft SLPs and  government-side Counters, as the office was on the panel for the State Government. 

    While this may not hold true for everyone, I had recognized that taking the AOR exam  would be professionally significant, yet I could not have anticipated the profound  impact it would have on my career once I qualified. I was aware that becoming an  Advocate-on-Record, particularly in the current generation, carries significant prestige, responsibility and accountability. Most who qualify today have amassed significant  experience across various courts and tribunals before reaching the appellate stage  practice, which equips them with a deeper understanding of the nuances of such  practice, a perspective that is harder to acquire when starting directly at that level.

    By 2014, you had taken the bold step of establishing an independent practice.  What were some of the challenges you faced and how did you navigate them? 

    When I began my independent practice, my work was mainly in lower courts, service  disputes before the CAT, and High Court litigation, and much of it non-contentious. Initially, I dedicated time to working on several pro bono cases. One of the turning  points came when I was empanelled with DLSA/DSLSA for the CAT panel, where I  was one of the five advocates and was selected on merit through a shortlisting and  interview process. It is often assumed that legal aid is confined to the economically  weaker sections, but under The Legal Services Authorities Act, children, women, senior  citizens, disabled and socially backward classes are equally entitled irrespective of  income. This gave me exposure to clients from very diverse backgrounds and allowed  me to develop the ability to handle people and their concerns at an early stage. 

    What made the experience especially meaningful was the trust it created. The  beneficiaries who appreciated my commitment towards their cause and work, often  referred me to their acquaintances, and I would also receive referrals from some  unexpected sources, such as court staff in some courts and other professional networks.  The referrals have not been confined to service matters, but I have also been entrusted  with their personal matters, including criminal, property, and matrimonial cases, among  others. These acknowledgments strengthened my belief in sincerity and perseverance  as the foundation of practice.  

    On a more personal note, I come from a family of high achievers and accomplished  individuals, most of whom have pursued structured and conventional career paths. 

    Except for my grandfather, who had earned great respect in his time as a prominent  lawyer, I had not personally heard of anyone establish an independent practice and face  the unique challenges that come with it, though I often wish he had still been practicing  when I entered the profession as he was a great inspiration and influenced my decision  to pursue law. I grew up hearing stories of how clients valued his exceptional legal  acumen and how he consistently achieved favourable verdicts. 

    Choosing litigation, and doing so as a self-made woman lawyer, brings its own set of  hurdles, but it also gave me resilience, confidence, and the satisfaction of building a  practice on my own merit. I believe it is important for anyone to have some support  system, and for me, that strength came primarily from my grandfather and parents, who  consistently encouraged me to pursue my dreams without being bound by the  conventional expectations of society.  

    You’ve dealt with a wide spectrum of cases in the Supreme Court as an Advocate on-Record, a few of which resulted in reportable judgments. How do you see these  experiences contributing to your professional and personal journey? 

    While my work in the High Court and lower courts has spanned matters, including appearances both for the government and for private parties, much of my work in the  Supreme Court has involved representing predominantly private parties, including  matters against different State Governments. What I’ve really valued about being an  AOR is the chance to engage with a wide variety of matters, all under one roof in a  short span. Over the years, I’ve handled cases touching on GST, Customs, SEBI,  statutory appeals from NCLAT, Service disputes, Transfer Petitions, and criminal  matters including bail, with some of them resulting in reportable judgments. Among  those, most recently, I argued a batch of cases concerning compassionate appointments,  where the Hon’ble Apex court upheld the High Court’s decision in favor of my clients,  granted the relief we sought, and issued important directives to the State. 

    On the professional and personal front, it is truly the vagaries of litigation that will shape you the most over time. There are days when I appear for a Petitioner/Applicant on a particular issue, and almost immediately thereafter, I may find myself defending  the Respondent on the same point in another matter. This frequent transition between perspectives necessitates not only a versatile approach to advocacy but also enhances the way one navigates difficulties in life, while also serving as a reminder that the law  is never unidimensional. 

    Your work as a mediator accredited by the International Mediation Institute  reflects a strong commitment to alternative dispute resolution. Alongside  mediation, you also have substantial experience in arbitration. In your view, how are these mechanisms evolving in India, and what role do you see them playing in  the future of dispute resolution? 

    In my view, not every conflict calls for the rigours of litigation, many can be effectively  resolved through dialogue and a planned, structured settlement process, a perspective  also endorsed by several sitting and retired judges across different courts. This line of  thought naturally steered me towards arbitration and mediation, reflecting an  inclination I had held from early on.  

    The journey for me in mediation began with intensive training of 120 hours initially with an international institute based in Germany, which involved regular simulations  and close interaction with participants from diverse jurisdictions. This foundation  gradually opened opportunities to mediate international disputes alongside colleagues  from different countries, many of whom became professional associates during the  course of training. I became involved in this sphere when mediation was still at its  nascent stage, much prior to the establishment of a statutory framework and I was aware  that it was a burgeoning field with great potential in future. Referrals followed naturally,  leading to further exposure and practice. I would like to think of mediation, by its very  nature, as an inherent skill while also one that is refined through experience and  continuous practice. Once qualified as a mediator, one need not wear the mediator’s hat  at all times. The profession demands the ability to know how to switch hats, as the skill  set of a mediator differs fundamentally from that of an advocate. 

    During mediation training, we are introduced to several techniques, which come in  handy, one of which is the classic ‘Orange parable’, it illustrates how two daughters  quarrelled over an orange; one wanted the fruit to eat, the other the peel to bake a cake.  By simply dividing it in half, each lost half of what she truly needed, but had the mother  asked why they wanted it, both could have received 100% of what they sought. The  story highlights how exploring underlying interests, rather than positions, often creates  outcomes that add value at no extra cost. 

    My interest in arbitration began during college while preparing as a speaker for a  prestigious international arbitration moot court competition. The research and learning  involved sparked a deep curiosity about the entire process. This led me to apply for an  internship with the DIAC, where I spent a few months gaining first-hand exposure  while still in college. Gradually, I began handling arbitration matters and found the process very engaging, particularly the intricacies of cross-examination, which require  precision and technicality rather than generic questioning, given that its appreciation in arbitration differs from that in a trial. A few years later, I found myself as an arbitrator  in a matter that was successfully steered towards settlement. Over the years, I joined  several national and international arbitration organizations through paid annual  memberships. While these affiliations offer valuable professional connections, I believe  the primary focus should remain on steadily building meaningful work in the field as  accumulating memberships alone, without gradually building substantive work, may  not serve a deeper purpose in advancing one’s practice or the profession. 

    It is becoming increasingly clear that ADR is not merely an alternative but represents  the future of dispute resolution. With technological advancements enabling Online  Dispute Resolution (ODR) and the legal framework evolving accordingly, it is  especially being recognized as the way forward for cross-border disputes. Even for that matter in domestic arbitration and mediation, the ability for counsels and parties to  participate remotely is a convenience that was virtually unknown until recently and with  that convenience comes a greater willingness among people to engage in the process, leaving fewer excuses to avoid it. 

    Beyond your work in courtrooms, you have also been invited to various forums  and platforms. Could you share how such opportunities have enriched your  professional journey? 

    My longstanding interest in subjects extending beyond law such as international  relations/foreign affairs, which I have actively explored by writing articles on diverse  topics that were published in reputed newspapers and journals, I believe for me, has  opened doors to unique opportunities beyond conventional legal practice. These  engagements have allowed me to be invited to various forums, media platforms and  different Embassies, participate in discussions on cross-border issues, and build  meaningful connections with diplomats and professionals in the field and beyond. Such  interactions also help to enrich your professional outlook.

    Alongside your independent practice, you serve as a Senior panel counsel for  prominent government bodies like MTNL, NDMC, MCD, DDA and others. How  different is it to represent government and public sector entities compared to  private clients, and what unique responsibilities come with it? 

    Representing government and public sector entities presents challenges and  opportunities that are distinct from a private practice involving private parties. The  outcomes in public sector matters often have far-reaching implications, potentially  impacting public funds, policy decisions, or matters of governance, rather than just  individual or corporate interests. The process of receiving and executing instructions  often involves multiple layers of guidance and approvals, requiring both patience and  clear communication as directives pass through several officials. There is also an  increased sense of accountability, as being a lawyer for the government involves  safeguarding the public interest in addition to advancing the client’s position. Timelines  and strategies can be shaped by the internal institutional protocols and procedural  requirements, yet the obligation on the panel counsels to maintain the highest  professional standards is unwavering. It requires not only a certain level of legal  expertise, understanding of the court craft but also a balanced approach that respects  both the letter of the law and the wider societal stakes involved. At the same time,  private practice from the private Petitioner and Applicant’s side offers unique rewards.  The chance to work closely with clients, shape the strategy of a matter, and see the  tangible impact of your work makes the experience deeply satisfying, while each setting  brings its own distinct professional lessons.  

    It bears mention that I have often encountered conflict of interest, since many  individuals approach me for matters involving the same departments where I am  empanelled. This highlights a limitation one cannot afford to put all their eggs in one  basket. In fact, empanelment is sometimes perceived as the ultimate goal for many  freshers, whereas in reality, it should only be meant to an end. The real challenge lies  in the dynamics of whether matters are actually assigned which has numerous variables  at play that are not always apparent to individuals aspiring for empanelment. In my  view, empanelment is valuable only if one has a reasonable prospect of leveraging them  over the long term, since more often than not they come at the cost of opportunities in  private practice that one has to forgo.

    With constant changes in legislation, regulatory frameworks, and commercial  practices, how do you stay updated on the latest legal developments? What advice  would you offer to students and young lawyers who aspire to build successful  careers in litigation and dispute resolution?

    First and foremost, I believe it is important to discover one’s own “Ikigai” , a concept  beautifully articulated in the book by the same name, which speaks of finding one’s  true purpose. For me, law was never about money or wealth, it goes much deeper. 

    At the same time, conviction alone is not enough, the law demands continuous learning,  and purpose finds its true meaning only when matched with consistency and diligence. To stay current with the constant changes in legislation, regulatory frameworks, and  commercial practices, I rely on a blend of traditional resources and contemporary tools.  I am subscribed to reputed legal journals and follow bi monthly if not weekly updates  from regulatory bodies. If a particular webinar or conference interests me, I make it a  point to watch the sessions or recordings whenever time permits, as they invariably  provide practical perspectives that go beyond what one finds in print. 

    On a more practical level, I find some WhatsApp groups to be useful for timely updates  though one must be selective, as some are driven by informal exchanges rather than  substance. I have also maintained paid subscriptions to legal databases, and whenever  possible, I even like to read international publications such as The Economist and The  Guardian to keep a more rounded view. In litigation, time management is extremely  critical. There is always too much to read and absorb, so the key lies in prioritizing  credible sources and ensuring that learning remains consistent, even if not exhaustive. After all, there are perhaps only a few professions/roles that demand knowledge across  a vast spectrum of disciplines and engagement with society at large namely those of a  judge, a civil servant and an advocate. Therefore, as a lawyer, the reading cannot be  confined to judgments alone. 

    For students and young lawyers aspiring to build careers in litigation and dispute  resolution, my advice is to not follow someone else’s path just because it worked for  them. Your journey is unique, so find what resonates with you and let it guide your  growth in this dynamic field.

    Get in touch with Ankita Sarangi –

  • “Whether arguing corporate disputes, pursuing PILs, or handling sensitive criminal trials, every brief is a trust placed in my hands, to be discharged with integrity and dignity.” – Shashank Singh, Founding Partner, CTS Partners LLP.

    “Whether arguing corporate disputes, pursuing PILs, or handling sensitive criminal trials, every brief is a trust placed in my hands, to be discharged with integrity and dignity.” – Shashank Singh, Founding Partner, CTS Partners LLP.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    How did you transition from your early years in litigation to regularly appearing before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the Delhi High Court, and various other forums across the country? What were some key early learning experiences that laid the foundation for your practice?

    My transition from the early years of litigation to regularly appearing before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the Delhi High Court, and other forums across the country was not sudden but a steady climb. I began in the trial courts of Delhi, handling matters where stakes for clients were immediate and personal. Those formative years taught me that advocacy rests on preparation, precision, and respect for procedure. Drafting pleadings instilled discipline, cross-examination taught patience, and interim applications honed the ability to think on my feet.

    Gradually, I began assisting in matters before the Delhi High Court. The shift required a different skill: structuring arguments with clarity and economy so that cases could survive preliminary objections. As clients entrusted me with appellate work, I appeared before various High Courts and Tribunals, while also briefing senior counsel in complex matters, learning how to condense large records into strategic briefs.

    The opportunity to appear before the Hon’ble Supreme Court followed naturally. It began with assisting in Special Leave Petitions and transfer petitions, and over time, I began appearing independently in interlocutory and final hearings. The guiding principle, instilled in me early on, has remained the same: never step into court without absolute command over your brief.

    Looking back, the lessons that shaped me did not come from one case or one forum but from consistently engaging with diverse matters, from trial disputes to appellate work and public interest litigation. Each stage built upon the last, creating a practice grounded not in chance but in cumulative discipline.

    As the Founding Partner of CTS Partners LLP, how do you balance leading the firm’s litigation and advisory verticals, and what vision do you have for the firm’s growth in an evolving legal market?

    Balancing litigation and advisory is less about dividing time than ensuring both strengthen each other. Litigation shows how contracts hold up when tested, while advisory allows disputes to be anticipated and avoided. At CTS Partners, we built our practice on this philosophy. Our litigation work is rooted in preparation, advocacy, and navigating complex forums, while our advisory practice focuses on precise drafting, foresight, and regulatory clarity, sharpened by lessons from court.

    As Founding Partner, I ensure insights flow between the two. A dispute in arbitration refines our contract reviews, while advisory on transactions always factors potential litigation risks. This constant feedback loop is what makes us effective across both fronts.

    My vision for CTS Partners LLP is to be recognised not only for competence but for partnering with clients through the entire lifecycle of their ventures, from inception and compliance to disputes and enforcement. In a rapidly evolving legal market shaped by technology and sectoral change, we aim to combine the rigour of the traditional bar with innovation in delivery. With a deliberate focus on sectors like Aviation, Biotechnology, Renewable Energy, and Infrastructure, we seek to build a firm that creates enduring value for clients while shaping standards in emerging industries.

    Your grandfather, Hon’ble Mr. Justice K. N. Singh, was a towering figure in the legal fraternity. How did his guidance shape your professional philosophy and influence your career choices?

    Law in my family has never been just a profession, it has been a legacy of values passed across generations. My great-grandfather was a judge, my grandfather, Hon’ble Mr. Justice K. N. Singh, served as the 22nd Chief Justice of India, and several of my uncles and cousins have served on the Bench. Growing up, the lessons came not from books, but from conversations with my grandfather where governance, justice, and human dignity were discussed as naturally as daily affairs.

    The principle he impressed upon me was simple: “You may choose to earn or choose to learn. If you choose to learn today, Lady Law shall ensure you never have to worry about the other.” From him I learned that credibility rests on preparation, judgment, and integrity, not just oratory. Even after holding the highest judicial office, he valued respectful disagreement if it was backed by logic and research. That humility before the law left a lasting mark on me. I still recall my first matter, a bail application under the Official Secrets Act. Nervous as I was, I narrated every detail to him afterwards. His focus was not the outcome, but the strategy, questions of law, and procedural nuances. The lesson was clear: never enter a courtroom unprepared.

    These principles have remained my compass. Whether arguing corporate disputes, pursuing PILs, or handling sensitive criminal trials, every brief is a trust placed in my hands, to be discharged with integrity and dignity. My family’s service to the law is not a pedestal for me to stand on, but a standard to live up to. Legacy, in my view, lies not in offices held, but in the work you do case by case, client by client, cause by cause.

    You have worked extensively in the aviation sector, including regulatory compliance, aircraft leasing, and contractual review involving sovereign obligations and global norms. What are the sector specific challenges you encounter, and how do you balance domestic legal frameworks with international regulatory requirements?

    My work in the aviation sector began with PSUs such as Air India Engineering Services Ltd. (AIESL), where every matter sits at the intersection of domestic law, international treaties, and operational realities. Whether it is a long-term aircraft lease, an MRO agreement, or a procurement contract, the advice must be technically sound, commercially viable, and compliant with sovereign obligations.

    The sector’s foremost challenge is reconciling India’s regulatory framework with global commitments. For instance, an aircraft lease must satisfy the Cape Town Convention while also meeting the Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s requirements. Counsel must draft provisions that withstand scrutiny in Indian courts yet remain recognisable abroad. The PSU context adds another layer, requiring compliance with General Financial Rules and vigilance norms, often at odds with international market standards. Bridging this gap without diluting compliance or commercial feasibility is where legal strategy becomes critical.

    Aviation also evolves faster than legislation. Engine configurations, safety protocols, and maintenance cycles change constantly, making flexibility in drafting essential. This requires working closely with engineers, procurement teams, and regulators so that legal language keeps pace with operational realities.

    Balancing domestic and international frameworks comes down to identifying the non-negotiables: statutory mandates, governmental approvals, and compliance procedures on one hand; treaty obligations, OEM standards, and global safety norms on the other. Once these are secured, agreements and dispute strategies can be structured to preserve both sides. In aviation, the cost of error is never just financial – it touches reputation and safety. That is why I approach every matter with the objective of delivering solutions that are watertight in compliance, workable in execution, and defensible before both domestic regulators and international counterparties.

    You have worked on plant genetics and environmental sustainability. How do you see biotechnology law evolving in India, especially in light of climate change and sustainability concerns?

    My engagement with biotechnology law has been rooted in real-world solutions. A case in point is my intervention before the Hon’ble Delhi High Court on the city’s air pollution crisis, where I proposed structured plantation of tissue-cultured Bamboo developed through plant genetics. This variety grows at nearly 1.5 feet per day, reaching 40 feet within two years, is non-invasive, requires minimal maintenance, and has one of the highest carbon absorption capacities among terrestrial plants. Its significance goes beyond ecology—it is also a raw material for CNG, ethanol, and electricity generation, aligning environmental goals with renewable energy targets, employment generation, and revenue creation for the State.

    This experience reflects the direction in which biotechnology law in India must evolve. Our current framework, spanning plant variety protection, patents, biosafety rules, and biodiversity obligations, largely operates in silos, whereas real biotechnology projects cut across them. As climate change accelerates, the law will need to shift from merely managing risk to actively enabling innovation with measurable environmental and social value.

    Three changes are critical. First, integrating climate and sustainability targets into sectoral approvals so projects with clear ecological benefits face streamlined pathways. Second, creating predictable and time-bound regulatory clearance systems that allow innovators to move from laboratory to field efficiently. Third, balancing commercial exploitation with safeguards for biodiversity, soil health, and community rights. My experience shows that when legal strategy is integrated at the inception of a scientific plan, both compliance and commercial viability are far more likely. The future of biotechnology law in India lies in anticipating regulatory concerns early while enabling science to deliver climate resilience, food security, and economic opportunity.

    In the media and entertainment industry, you have handled intellectual property rights, contractual enforcement, and content regulation. How do you approach safeguarding creative rights in an age where digital content is expanding at an unprecedented pace?

    Safeguarding creative rights today requires more than reactive enforcement. With content created and distributed at unprecedented speed, the law must be embedded from the inception of a project. Contracts need to be precise and anticipatory, covering ownership, attribution, territories, and protection across emerging platforms, including streaming, interactive media, and AI-assisted formats.

    Infringement now extends beyond copying to unauthorised adaptations, derivative works, and misappropriation of concepts. My role is to anticipate these risks and ensure that protective clauses and enforcement mechanisms are in place upfront. Globally, frameworks like the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act provide structured procedures for takedowns and intermediary liability. India, however, still relies on broader provisions under the Information Technology Act, which were not designed for AI-driven content or mass online distribution. This absence of a dedicated framework, especially for AI training on copyrighted material, creates significant gaps for creators.

    In this environment, I adopt a proactive approach: contracts that are both jurisdiction-specific and internationally aware, active monitoring of infringement, and swift enforcement across forums. Protecting creative investment requires foresight and adaptability. My objective is to ensure creators can innovate and share their work with confidence, knowing their rights remain secure even as technology evolves.

    What has been one of the most challenging cases in your career, and how did you navigate the legal and personal complexities involved?

    In the course of practice, we encounter matters that test our interpretation of law, our procedural skill, or our ability to strategize under pressure. Then there are cases that demand far more, cases that place you directly before the rawest realities of human cruelty and compel you to carry forth with both the composure of an advocate and the compassion of a human being.

    One of the most difficult matters I have ever handled involved grave offences under Sections 376 and 377 of the Indian Penal Code, along with offences under the POCSO Act. The accused included the father of the victims, a young girl and her brother along with his associates. Representing the children in such circumstances is not merely about applying the statute. It requires a trauma informed approach, where every interaction is measured, where every question is weighed against the risk of inflicting further pain, and where the dignity of the victims is the paramount consideration. The courtroom in such matters is not just a place of law, it becomes a place where emotional safeguards are as vital as legal safeguards.

    What made this case uniquely difficult for me was how close it felt to home. My own nieces and nephews are of the same age as the victims. In the conference, as I listened to these children speak about their lives, their words were those of any child – school, friends, small joys, yet behind them lay a history no child should have to bear. In their eyes I could see my own kin, and that realisation was unsettling. It is one thing to know the facts as counsel, and quite another to feel them through the lens of your own family. The challenge was to channel that proximity into determination rather than distraction. The law required me to be measured, precise, and unwavering in court, while the human reality urged me to protect them as if they were my own. Every procedural choice, every submission, had to preserve the strength of the case while ensuring the children did not have to relive the trauma unnecessarily.

    In the end, what stays with me is not just the legal conclusion but the resilience of those two young lives. Despite their ordeal, they bore themselves with a quiet strength that left an impression far deeper than any verdict could. For me, this case was a stark reminder that advocacy is not only about securing justice on paper, but also about ensuring that those we represent are met with dignity, protection, and faith in the process.

    From environmental issues to governance reforms, your PIL work has addressed causes of broad public significance. In your view, what role will PILs play in shaping India’s legal landscape over the next 20 years?

    Public Interest Litigation has been one of India’s most transformative judicial innovations, allowing citizens to seek structural remedies for systemic wrongs. Its strength lies in a legacy built on landmark interventions: from Kesavananda Bharati’s Basic Structure doctrine which expanded judicial responsibility, to M.C. Mehta’s environmental cases that introduced CNG in Delhi’s transport fleet, to Vishaka which created an entirely new framework against workplace harassment. These cases show how PILs can reshape governance where legislation lags.

    When I intervened in Delhi’s air pollution crisis, I sought not rhetoric but a science-based solution: structured plantation of high-yield tissue-cultured Bamboo with extraordinary carbon absorption capacity and multiple commercial uses in clean fuels. The aim was to confront ecological, economic, and employment concerns in a single implementable measure.

    Looking ahead, the frontier of PILs will broaden to issues like climate change, cross-border crimes, digital privacy, and algorithmic governance. With India yet to enact a comprehensive AI law, it is conceivable that the first major questions of AI ethics and accountability will reach the courts through PILs. The challenge will be to preserve credibility by ensuring PILs remain grounded in research, evidence, and workable outcomes rather than quick, media-driven filings.

    If pursued with rigour and foresight, PILs will remain one of the most powerful levers of systemic reform, holding the State accountable, shaping public policy, and safeguarding constitutional values for the next generation.

    You have been active in mentorship and legal aid. What advice would you give young lawyers who aspire to appear in higher courts and work across diverse legal domains?

    The first thing I realised in practice is that there is no shortcut in law. This profession is not a place for instant gratification. The cases that test you, the seniors who challenge you, and the long hours of research for a matter that may be over in two minutes in court, all form part of the process that shapes a lawyer’s instinct.

    For those aspiring to appear before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the High Courts, or even specialised tribunals, it is essential to understand that higher court practice is not built on clever argumentation alone. It rests on a solid command over facts, procedure, and precedent, as well as the ability to anticipate the bench’s concerns and respond with clarity. This requires discipline in preparation, not just reading the brief but living with it until every argument becomes second nature. Equally important is the ability to listen. Sometimes, knowing when not to speak is as strategic as knowing what to say.

    In my own journey, one of the most formative experiences was working with Hon’ble Mr. Justice R. S. Endlaw, Retired Judge of the Delhi High Court. He not only taught me how to carry myself in court but also encouraged me to observe the craft of Senior Advocates who argued complex matters before him. He would remind us that the art of advocacy lies as much in how an argument is presented as in the law that supports it. From him, I also learnt the discipline of research, not simply gathering material, but knowing what to look for, how to sift through competing strands of law, and how to present it with clarity. Perhaps most importantly, working under him gave me perspective on how a Judge, not one from my own family background but from outside, views a matter. To this day, I try to place myself in that position, to imagine how a Judge thinks, reacts, and weighs an argument. That training continues to guide me.

    In terms of practice, I feel that the wide range of matters I have handled—from aviation and energy to medical science and biotechnology, has been a real advantage. Some of these areas are highly technical, but that is precisely what the profession demands: the ability to absorb, adapt, and make sense of disciplines far outside one’s own training. The law, by its very design, pushes you to step beyond comfort zones and to develop the capacity to present almost anything with clarity and conviction. In India, this adaptability is becoming even more important. With a rapidly expanding Bar, seniors with decades of experience, and the recent entry of foreign law firms, competition is only going to get more intense. Against that backdrop, being multifaceted is not simply a matter of choice but of survival and effectiveness, since clients increasingly expect lawyers who can handle diverse and often overlapping fields. This is not to suggest that there is anything wrong with focusing on a single specialised field. But in our system, cultivating breadth in the early years gives a young lawyer resilience, perspective, and the confidence to meet very different kinds of challenges.

    Lastly, I believe it is important to never lose sight of the fact that law is a profession of service. Mentorship, legal aid, and pro bono work are not optional extras. They are reminders of why many of us entered the field in the first place. Whether representing a corporation in a regulatory matter or a victim in a criminal trial, the lawyer’s role is not just to safeguard rights but to protect dignity and trust. If one carries that ethic forward, higher courts will not only be places to appear in, but arenas where a lawyer can contribute meaningfully to the living fabric of the law.

    Get in touch with Shashank Singh –

  • “Litigation demands more than a sound understanding of the law; it calls for strategic thinking, creativity in argumentation, and a deep sense of ethical responsibility.” – Dushyant Tiwari, Advocate-on-Record at Supreme Court of India.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Having graduated from NUALS, Kerala, and starting your practice directly before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, what inspired you to pursue such a high-stakes litigation career so early on ?

    My decision to pursue litigation particularly by starting directly at the Supreme Court was rooted in both personal ambition and the exposure I received during law school. Coming from a first-generation legal background, I didn’t have familial connections in the profession. That absence could have been a limitation, but in many ways, it became a motivator.

    A key factor that empowered me was the strong support of my family, especially my elder brother. His advice and encouragement played a crucial role in helping me make bold career decisions, including the step to begin my practice at the apex court. His belief in my potential gave me the confidence to pursue a path that was unconventional and challenging.

    During law school, I had the opportunity to intern with a diverse set of accomplished lawyers. These experiences offered me valuable exposure to different styles of practice and deepened my understanding of litigation as more than just dispute resolution. I saw firsthand how litigation can serve as a powerful tool—not just for individual justice, but for broader policy reform and societal impact.

    What truly attracted me to litigation was its intellectually rigorous nature. It demands more than a sound understanding of the law; it calls for strategic thinking, creativity in argumentation, and a deep sense of ethical responsibility.

    Starting out at the Supreme Court was undoubtedly intimidating, but it gave me a unique opportunity to engage with complex, high-stakes matters early in my career. I was able to learn directly from senior advocates and constitutional experts. While building a reputation from scratch came with its own set of hurdles, the process made me more resilient, disciplined, and committed to the principles of justice.

    What were some key challenges and lessons you learned while transitioning from working with an Advocate-on-Record to establishing your own practice in 2016, and later founding Scripta Lex Law Firm in 2018?

    The transition was both challenging and transformative. One major hurdle was building a client base from the ground up. As a first-generation lawyer, I lacked industry connections and had to rely solely on the quality of my work and my ability to earn trust.

    Running an independent practice also introduced me to the administrative side of law—budgeting, staffing, operations, and more. Shifting from solely legal work to managing a full-fledged firm required developing a new skill set quickly.

    The most valuable lesson I learned was the importance of building and nurturing relationships. In the absence of a network, I made a conscious effort to connect with senior counsel, peers, and clients. Legal expertise is essential, but trust and communication are what sustain a practice.

    Running my own firm has also taught me to take full ownership of every case. Beyond legal strategy, I now consider a client’s broader goals and circumstances. It’s given me a holistic approach and a deeper understanding of how to lead both in the courtroom and within my firm.

    As a qualified Advocate-on-Record (AOR), what are the unique responsibilities that come with the role, and how do they affect your practice?

    Being an AOR comes with significant responsibility. Only AORs have the right to file documents before the Supreme Court, which means every filing must be flawless in terms of format, compliance, and timing.

    As an AOR, I’m also the official point of contact between the client and the Court. This means that my role extends beyond documentation, I must ensure that clients are informed, and expectations are managed appropriately.

    This responsibility has enhanced my attention to detail and refined my organizational skills. It has also deepened my appreciation for the precision and professionalism that the Supreme Court demands, ultimately shaping me into a more disciplined and reliable practitioner.

    You have significant experience across varied forums, Supreme Court, High Courts, NCLT/NCLAT, NCDRC, and more. How do you approach such diverse jurisdictions and areas of law? Which field has evolved the most in the last decade?

    Each forum requires a distinct approach. At the Supreme Court and High Courts, cases often involve constitutional or public interest elements. These require legal foresight and arguments that resonate at a policy level.

    In contrast, corporate forums like NCLT/NCLAT demand a deep understanding of statutory frameworks like the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). I frequently collaborate with financial experts to address the commercial realities involved.

    In the NCDRC, which deals with consumer disputes, the emphasis is on practical solutions and timely resolutions. These forums call for clarity, efficiency, and client-centric approaches.

    Among all, Insolvency Law has evolved the most over the past decade. The IBC has transformed corporate debt resolution in India. As it continues to evolve through amendments and judicial interpretation, staying updated and agile is crucial.

    Consumer Law has also seen major developments, especially with the growth of e-commerce. The introduction of the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, reflects this shift and has changed how we approach digital consumer disputes.

    Navigating these forums successfully demands continuous learning, adaptability, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

    With your expertise over various aspects, can you share a defining case that shaped your outlook on litigation?

    One defining case was a complex corporate insolvency matter under the IBC before the NCLT. The company in question had multiple stakeholders—each with competing interests. The legal issues were intricate, but so were the financial and strategic considerations.

    What made the case significant was its timing, it occurred when the IBC was still evolving. We were navigating uncharted waters, relying on fresh judicial interpretations and creative legal solutions.

    This case reinforced my belief that litigation isn’t just about resolving disputes; it’s about contributing to systemic and economic recovery. Lawyers play a vital role in shaping not only legal outcomes but also financial futures and social stability.

    What gaps do you see in consumer awareness, and how should the Consumer Protection framework evolve?

    A major gap lies in the lack of awareness, especially in rural and underserved areas. Many people don’t know their basic consumer rights or how to seek redress. Even in urban areas, legal processes can seem intimidating and inaccessible.

    With digital commerce, new challenges like cross-border transactions, misleading ads, and jurisdictional issues have emerged.

    To address these, the framework must evolve by:

    • Expanding legal literacy through targeted outreach programs
    • Simplifying online complaint processes
    • Strengthening digital consumer protection mechanisms
    • Enhancing enforcement to ensure timely justice
    • Creating user-friendly forums for efficient dispute resolution

    Improving access and responsiveness will help make the system more inclusive and effective.

    How do you balance pro bono commitments with your commercial practice?

    For me, pro bono work is not just a commitment, it’s a principle. I believe access to justice should never be determined by one’s ability to pay.

    Balancing both requires discipline. I set aside dedicated time and ensure that pro bono matters are managed with the same attention as commercial cases. In fact, these cases often sharpen my empathy and creativity, enriching my approach to complex commercial matters as well.

    Pro bono work reminds me why I chose this profession—to make a meaningful impact. It grounds me and enhances the human side of my legal practice.

    Where do you see the greatest opportunities for young legal professionals today?

    There’s immense opportunity in emerging areas like data privacy, technology law, and insolvency law. With growing digital transactions and evolving privacy concerns, lawyers with expertise in tech-law intersections are in high demand.

    The IBC continues to offer opportunities in corporate restructuring, cross-border insolvency, and distressed asset resolution.

    Young lawyers should focus on:

    • Staying updated with legal-tech trends
    • Carving niches in emerging fields
    • Embracing specialization
    • Building digital fluency alongside legal expertise

    Those who adapt early to these trends will be best positioned to lead the future of legal practice.

    What advice would you give to law students or young advocates entering litigation?

    • Master the basics: Strong fundamentals are your best asset.
    • Seek mentorship: Learn from seasoned lawyers—it shapes your growth.
    • Be patient: Litigation is a long journey; focus on consistency and credibility.
    • Build relationships: Clients value trust, not just technical knowledge.
    • Work in teams: Collaborative success is sustainable success.
    • Use technology: Legal tech enhances efficiency and reach.
    • Specialize and build focus: Develop niche expertise to differentiate yourself. Alongside this, cultivate the habit of reading books—legal and otherwise. Deep reading enhances comprehension, critical thinking, and focus in a way that passive scrolling through social media never can.
    • Take care of yourself: Mental and physical well-being are vital for long-term growth.

    And most importantly stay curious, stay ethical, and stay resilient. Litigation rewards those who show up, stay prepared, and work with purpose.

    Get in touch with Dushyant Tiwari –

  • “It must be understood that true inclusion lies in recognising difference, not ignoring it, and creating conditions that enable success on equal terms.” – Karan Kamra, Intellectual Property Lawyer.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    Your journey from Dhanbad to where you stand today is truly inspiring. How have your personal experiences and academic background in Political Science shaped your decision to pursue law, and how have they influenced your strong legal journey and commitment to the profession?

    I’m a first-generation lawyer, born into a family deeply rooted in the pharmaceutical business, a world far removed from the courts and statutes that now define my everyday life. Growing up with cerebral palsy in a small town like Dhanbad, I often felt the need to prove myself – to be seen, to be heard, and to be taken seriously. For me, the black coat was more than a symbol of the legal profession, it  signified  a  possibility – that merit could speak louder than mobility and that confidence and conviction could override any preconceived notions about ability. 

    I came to Delhi and pursued Political Science. The discipline deepened my understanding of the Constitution, legal systems, and power structures. It eventually led me to Campus Law Centre, Faculty of Law where I discovered my calling in Intellectual Property law. 

    My personal experience instilled in me a deep sense of resilience, to persist, adapt, and advocate in a world not always built for difference.  At the same time, my academic grounding in Political Science gave me a strong structural lens helping me understand laws and  their intricate interplay with legal systems and institutions.  

    This foundation, combined with lived experience, has shaped not just how I view the law but how I approach Intellectual Property, with empathy for creators and right holders,  strategic thinking for brand protection, and a deep sense of purpose in safeguarding invention.  

    In the early phase of your career, you worked  in a full-service law firm and an independent  general practitioner. What motivated your transition into intellectual property law, and how did those foundational years shape your current approach to IP practice? 

    In the early phase of my career, working with a full-service law firm and an independent  general practitioner exposed me to the breadth and intensity of legal practice – from civil suits to commercial disputes. It was a rigorous training ground that honed my advocacy, research, and drafting skills. 

    I began noticing how deeply brands, trademarks,  domain names, content, and technology were getting intertwined with legal disputes. I was drawn to the unique intersection of law, commerce, and creativity that intellectual property law offered. The shift to IP felt organic—it allowed me to work not just reactively in disputes, but also proactively with creators, individuals and businesses to safeguard what they were building. 

    Those foundational litigation years instilled in me a detail-oriented, strategic mindset. They taught me how to anticipate risks, think like a litigator even in advisory work, and approach IP not in isolation, but in its commercial and legal context. 

    You’ve represented clients in domain name disputes before WIPO and INDRP. Could you walk us through your experience in this space? What are some of the key legal and strategic challenges entities commonly face in such matters? 

    The legal framework under both WIPO’s UDRP and India’s INDRP is robust but exacting, placing the onus on the Complainant to establish three core elements: (1) that the domain is identical or confusingly similar to a trademark in which it has rights, (2) that the registrant lacks legitimate interests in the domain, and (3) that the domain has been registered and is being used in bad faith. While WIPO offers quicker, globally recognized redress—typically resolving disputes within 60–75 days—INDRP is key for .in domain disputes and may take 3–6 months or more due to procedural flexibilities and single-arbitrator handling under NIXI.

    Success before both forums relies heavily on the Complainant’s ability to present comprehensive evidence, including proof of trademark rights, prior and continuous use, and supporting documentation like screenshots of misuse, WHOIS records, archived web content, and prior communications. This evidence must clearly align with the legal criteria, particularly to demonstrate the registrant’s bad faith and lack of legitimate interest. The process is evidence-driven and leaves little room for error.

    One of the significant challenges is that infringers often hide behind privacy services or proxy registrations, making it harder to trace the true registrant. WIPO has mechanisms in place to request unmasking, usually coordinated with the registrar, though it’s not guaranteed. INDRP poses more hurdles due to NIXI’s limited procedural transparency and lack of early disclosure protocols. In such cases, complainants must rely on circumstantial and digital forensics—such as WHOIS history, DNS and IP data, website metadata, and linkages across abusive registrations—to build a strong, inferential case.

    While dealing with software piracy and advising software firms, what major trends and challenges have you observed globally? How do you think India’s legal and enforcement mechanisms compare with international frameworks in addressing piracy?

    Software piracy today has evolved into a highly complex and dynamic threat, fuelled by digital proliferation and the increasing sophistication of infringers. We’ve seen a decisive shift from physical duplication to digital piracy, with unauthorized downloads, license key sharing, and hacked installations spreading through torrent sites, web platforms, and even on social media and e-commerce portals. A major trend is the rise of ‘cracked’ enterprise solutions being sold at a fraction of their actual price, often through resellers masquerading as legitimate vendors. In the SaaS ecosystem, misuse takes subtler forms – such as license overuse, unauthorized API calls, credential stuffing, and cloning of proprietary software models.

    From a comparative lens, India’s enforcement mechanisms have strengthened in recent years. Courts have become more proactive in granting Anton Piller orders, John Doe orders, and dynamic injunctions to block rogue websites. The IT Act and Rules coupled with the Copyright Act, provides a statutory framework for enforcement, and cybercrime units in metro cities are increasingly equipped to tackle software piracy, especially in B2B settings.

    However, when compared with jurisdictions like the U.S., EU, or even Singapore, India still lags in certain areas- particularly in digital forensics, quick takedown protocols and cross-border enforcement cooperation. Lack of digital IP expertise in certain enforcement bodies and different judicial approaches to damages also pose challenges.

    To combat this, software companies must take a multi-pronged strategy: strong, enforceable EULAs with audit rights; proactive license tracking using Software Asset Management (SAM) tools; deployment of digital watermarking and DRM technologies; and active online surveillance of infringing platforms. Legal action must often be supported by pre-suit investigations to establish unauthorized use, followed by civil enforcement and, where appropriate, criminal prosecution. 

    The most effective anti-piracy efforts globally involve a mix of litigation, technology, partnerships with enforcement agencies, and user education, something India is slowly but surely aligning itself. 

    You’ve also championed client interests during mediations at the Delhi High Court Mediation Centre. In your view, how effective is mediation in resolving complex IP disputes, and what role does it play in balancing commercial and legal interests?

    Mediation, especially in the context of IP disputes, can be a remarkably effective tool when approached with the right mindset. At the Delhi High Court Mediation Centre, I’ve seen firsthand how it creates space for parties to move beyond rigid legal positions and engage in commercially meaningful dialogue. Unlike litigation, which is often adversarial and time-consuming, mediation allows for tailored, confidential, and business-sensitive solutions, making it particularly valuable in high-stakes IP matters. 

    In disputes involving brand reputation, time-to-market pressures or ongoing commercial relationships, mediation offers the flexibility to craft outcomes that litigation may not be equipped to provide, such as licensing arrangements, joint ventures, or mutually acceptable phased withdrawals. Pre-suit mediation, in particular, has emerged as a powerful tool to resolve conflicts early, avoid escalation, and maintain goodwill – saving time, cost, and reputational strain.

    Ultimately, mediation helps balance legal rights with commercial realities. It empowers clients to co-create outcomes that serve both legal and business interests. In an IP landscape shaped by innovation and speed, mediation is increasingly becoming a strategic first step—particularly effective in resolving disputes early and efficiently, with the exception of aggravated cases of infringement or passing off that merit litigation.

    Having advised multinational clients in sectors such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and hospitality, what unique IP challenges have you seen in the automotive sector? What preventive strategies would you recommend to avoid trademark issues early on?

    The automotive sector in India faces distinct IP challenges due to its vast supply chain, aggressive branding strategies, and a rapidly growing aftermarket ecosystem.  Trademark infringement today extends beyond core brand names and registered marks to include sub-brands, model names, variant tags, and even alphanumeric identifiers. Infringers, particularly in the spare parts and accessories markets, routinely misuse these marks to falsely suggest association or compatibility to original vehicle manufacturers (the rightful IP holders). This not only dilutes brand equity but also risks consumer deception and safety, especially when counterfeit or substandard parts and accessories are involved. 

    A common defence invoked by unauthorised sellers is Section 30(2)(d) of the Trade Marks Act, which allows the use of a registered mark to indicate the intended purpose of a product or service (e.g., “compatible with Brand X”). However, this defence is not absolute. The protection under the provision ceases to apply where the use is not in accordance with honest industrial or commercial practices, or where it takes unfair advantage of  or is detrimental to the distinctive character or repute of the mark. In the automotive space, this line is often crossed when infringers stylise logos, mimic trade dress, or market counterfeit parts under the guise of compatibility.

    Design infringement is another major concern, especially with regard to spare parts like headlights, grills, mirrors, and alloy wheels. Many of these are reverse-engineered and sold in the grey market without authorization, undermining both brand value and consumer safety. Companies often fail to register industrial designs or delay doing so, weakening their enforcement stance in cases of replication by third-party manufacturer.

    To address this, companies must actively monitor and enforce rights not just in their principal marks but also in model-specific and component-related branding, which are often more vulnerable. Registering sub-brands and variant names in relevant classes, including digital and retail categories, is key. Furthermore, legal notices and litigation should specifically challenge bad-faith use that exceeds the scope of Section 30(2) (d) focusing on consumer confusion, deceptive marketing, and reputational harm. 

    On the design front, preventive strategies include timely registration of industrial designs for high-risk components such as headlights, mirrors, grilles, and alloy wheels, especially those with distinctive visual appeal likely to be replicated. Companies should conduct regular design audits, embed subtle identifiers to support enforcement, and use border enforcement mechanisms to block infringing imports. Where misuse persists, design infringement lawsuits under the Designs Act, 2000—seeking injunctions, damages, and delivery of infringing goods—are vital tools to deter copycats and affirm rights. Combined with trademark enforcement, these steps help safeguard brand equity and product integrity across the automotive ecosystem.

    You’ve often mentored and guided younger professionals. What advice would you offer to law students or litigators looking to shift to IP law, and what resources or habits can help them stay competitive and updated in this fast-evolving domain? 

    For law students or litigators looking to transition into IP law, my first piece of advice would be: ‘cultivate curiosity’. It is important to ground yourself in the fundamentals—copyrights, trademarks, patents, and designs but it is equally imperative to go beyond textbooks. Following case law developments and tracking decisions of various courts, as well as international bodies like WIPO and dispute resolution platforms like INDRP, is essential. These decisions not only reflect how the law is being interpreted in real time but also reveal emerging trends, judicial attitudes, and strategic nuances that shape IP enforcement and protection.

    Using legal search engines like Manupatra and Westlaw, staying tuned into online news portals such as Live Law and Bar & Bench, and regularly reading blogs like SpicyIP and IPKat are excellent ways to stay updated. Newsletters, national and international legal magazines and webinars (hosted by bar associations or IP firms) also offer timely insights into evolving jurisprudence and policy shifts.  

    I would recommend interning with or working alongside seasoned practitioners. Many young professionals grow the most by observing and absorbing. Simply being in the room with experienced lawyers, watching how they interpret statutes, craft arguments and strategy and navigate court dynamics can shape your legal thinking in ways that are both subtle and lasting. Know the procedure as regards court filings and court practice. Most importantly, stay open to learning and listening whether from seniors, peers, or juniors. The humility will keep you sharp and grounded. 

    Balancing demanding professional responsibilities with personal well-being is no small feat. How do you manage this balance, and what practices or mindset have helped you stay grounded over the years? 

    Balancing the intensity of legal practice with personal well-being has been one of the most challenging and ongoing lessons of my career. In the early years, it was easy to get swept up in the long hours and high-pressure deadlines and the constant push to prove myself. But over time, I’ve come to realize that sustainability in this profession requires more than endurance, it needs intentionality, boundaries and deliberate pauses. 

    Balance comes from prioritizing high-impact tasks and pressing deadlines, while simultaneously planning a clear roadmap for research, preparation, and argument execution in other matters. This structured approach ensures that urgent work is handled efficiently without losing sight of long-term responsibilities, helping me stay steady, focused, and prepared across all fronts. 

    Spending time with family and friends, engaging in conversations beyond law, and learning to disconnect have become vital. Music, movies, and books are more than just breaks, they’re essential tools to break monotony, spark creativity, and keep me grounded.

    From being mentored by senior lawyers to independently handling high-stakes litigation, your journey has been marked by growth and learning. What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve carried forward, especially when it comes to leadership and courtroom advocacy?

    Every journey has its highs and lows, and mine has been no exception. I did make my share of mistakes in the early years – be it in court, professional interactions, or even client handling. Each misstep became a valuable lesson. I learnt to face embarrassment, accept feedback, and grow from it. One of the most important lessons was to remain both tenacious in facing challenges and malleable enough to learn from seniors and peers—an essential balance not just at the start, but throughout one’s legal career.

    I’m deeply grateful for the mentorship I received, especially from Mr. Achuthan Shreekumar, Mr. Saif Khan and Ms. Binny Kalra in my early years. They taught me to take full ownership of my work, to be meticulous in my preparation, and to argue with clarity, conviction, and courage. These values continue to guide me through complex matters and high-pressure situations in court with balance and self-belief. 

    Observing some of the finest legal minds during my legal career has been my privilege. It has helped me absorb the nuances of court craft, statutory interpretation, and legal strategy, often through a quiet process of osmosis.

    Equally important have been the lessons in procedural rigour, understanding filings, registry practices, court processes, and client coordination. Perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned to listen, whether to seniors, peers, or juniors. Staying open and receptive has I’ve imbibed the importance of discipline, resilience, ethics, and a commitment to timeline – qualities that help build a legal culture that respects creativity, integrity, and innovation.  

    As a lawyer with cerebral palsy, you’ve spoken powerfully about inclusion and structural challenges. What changes would you like to see in the legal industry to make it more accessible, and how can organizations move from intent to implementation on this aspect?

    Navigating the legal profession as a differently-abled lawyer has been a mixed journey. I’ve been fortunate to encounter mentors and colleagues who valued my credentials and potential over visible physical limitations. Despite the same, I’ve also faced scepticism—about whether I could handle the physical demands of litigation or keep pace in a high-pressure environment. These misconceptions stem from deeper social conditioning around disability and competence. The only real way to counter them is through consistent performance, meaningful outcomes, and quiet persistence.

    Over time, I’ve realised the issue isn’t about access to opportunity. Many firms today are open to hiring professionals with disabilities, especially as diversity becomes a core organisational value. The real challenge lies in organisations being  truly disability-cognizant beyond the point of entry. 

    Genuine inclusion means going beyond symbolic representation—it requires accessible infrastructure, assistive tech and software apps, flexible work schedules. Most importantly, more organisations need to invest in inclusive training across teams and levels and to build  a culture rooted in empathy, understanding, and intentional dialogue. Equally important is addressing ‘disability blindness’—the expectation that disabled professionals meet identical performance standards without acknowledging their physical limitation or the systemic barriers they navigate. It must be understood that true inclusion lies in recognising difference, not ignoring it and creating conditions that enable success on equal terms. 

    Looking ahead, how do you see IP law evolving over the next decade, especially with the rise of AI-generated content, deepfakes, and non-traditional trademarks? What key reforms or innovations do you think are essential to future-proof the IP framework?

    Over the next decade, IP law in India will be under mounting pressure to modernise in response to rapid technological advances. AI generated content fundamentally challenges the traditional copyright framework, which is centred on human authorship and originality. As machines autonomously create literary, artistic, and musical works, existing laws struggle to define ownership, liability, and infringement. To address this, regulatory clarity is essential either through specific amendments to the Copyright Act or by introducing sui generis protections tailored to AI generated  and machine generated content. 

    To address deepfake misuse, India’s IP regime must strengthen personality rights to prevent unauthorized digital cloning of a person’s image, voice, or likeness, especially for commercial use. There must be an expansion of the scope of ‘misrepresentation’ under  trademark and passing-off laws to cover deepfake endorsements or AI-generated impersonations that mislead consumers or dilutes brand identity. 

    Additionally, there must  be  an introduction of mandatory disclosure or watermarking requirements for AI-generated or manipulated content, especially on social media or commercial platforms, to ensure transparency and traceability. Lastly, there is a need of faster takedown mechanisms and intermediary liability guidelines tailored to AI and deepfake content under IP enforcement rules, empowering right holders to act swiftly.

    Trademark law must evolve to protect non-traditional marks like sound, scent, motion, and holograms. With businesses increasingly operating in digital-first or virtual environments, including the metaverse,  the law must address how trademarks function when use is no longer confined to physical goods or services. This will require not only legislative amendments but also updated examination guidelines, jurisprudence, and technological competence within the Trademark Registry and Judiciary. 

    Get in touch with Karan Kamra –

  • “Litigation is not about instant rewards, it’s a long game. It tests your patience, builds your  character, and teaches you lessons that no textbook ever can.” – Kauser Husain, Advocate at Supreme Court of India.

    “Litigation is not about instant rewards, it’s a long game. It tests your patience, builds your  character, and teaches you lessons that no textbook ever can.” – Kauser Husain, Advocate at Supreme Court of India.

    This interview has been published by Anshi Mudgal and The SuperLawyer Team

    In the early stages of your career, you interned with several leading law firms. Could you  share specific experiences or lessons from those internships that significantly shaped your understanding of the law and laid the foundation for your litigation practice?

    Thank you very much for inviting me—it’s a pleasure to be here at this platform, and I  truly appreciate the opportunity. 

    Coming from a non-NLU background, having pursued my BA LL.B. from Aligarh Muslim  University followed by an LL.M. from NALSAR, the path to breaking into top-tier law firms  wasn’t straightforward. However, through determination and consistent effort, I was fortunate to  secure internships with leading firms such as the erstwhile Amarchand Mangaldas and Luthra &  Luthra. 

    I consciously chose to work across both corporate and litigation teams to gain a well-rounded  understanding of the legal landscape. On the corporate side, I was involved in drafting commercial  contracts, conducting due diligence, and assisting in deal structuring—experiences that honed my  attention to detail, regulatory knowledge, and commercial insight. 

    However, it was in Litigation that I found my true calling. Attending court proceedings, grasping  procedural intricacies, drafting legal responses, and conducting research using platforms like SCC  Online and Manupatra, etc. significantly shaped my litigation skill set—tools, which I still continue  to rely on in my current practice. 

    A particularly formative experience was assisting in a complex arbitration matter, where I had the  opportunity to observe Senior Counsels navigating the procedural and substantive challenges with  strategic finesse. This experience further solidified my interest in litigation, especially in the realm  of Criminal law, which demands keen analytical thinking, real-time problem-solving, and  persuasive advocacy. 

    Beyond technical proficiency, these internships instilled in me essential soft skills—discipline, time  management, and the ability to perform under pressure. They laid a strong foundation for my  litigation practice and continue to influence the professional I aspire to be. 

    What drew you to the legal profession? Was law always a planned career path for you, or did your interest develop gradually over time? 

    To be honest, Law was not my initial career plan. Coming from a commerce background,  I had originally considered pursuing professional courses like CA or CS. Around 2010, when I  completed my 12th grade, awareness about legal education—especially institutions like National  Law Universities and entrance exams like CLAT—was still quite limited, particularly at the  grassroots level.

    It was actually through my father that I first came to know about the option of studying law. That  sparked my curiosity, and I began researching about the Law schools, the Legal Profession,  placements, top law firms, and prominent lawyers. The more I explored, the more I found the  field fascinating—it felt like an opportunity to do something meaningful and different. 

    Once I joined law school, my interest deepened gradually. Studying various legal subjects and  gaining practical exposure through internships helped me understand the vastness and depth of  the profession. 

    Most lawyers tend to pick a specialization early on—fields like IPR, corporate law, or tax. But I  deliberately took the longer route. I wanted to earn clarity through lived experience rather than  rushing into a niche. By working across different domains, I gained a broader perspective and  eventually discovered that my true passion lies in Litigation. 

    What motivated you to pursue an LL.M. in Corporate & Commercial Laws from  NALSAR University of Law? How did that specialization deepen your grasp of commercial legal  issues and impact your practice? 

    After qualifying CLAT, I thoroughly researched LL.M. specialization options offered by  various National Law Universities. NALSAR stood out to me for its diverse range of  specializations and academic excellence. Given my prior internship experience with corporate  teams in Law Firms as well as Litigation Chambers, I decided to pursue Corporate and Commercial  Laws as my primary specialization. 

    I was particularly drawn to this field because of its dynamic interplay between legal reasoning,  business strategy, and regulatory frameworks. However, my interest didn’t stop there. During my  internships, I also discovered a genuine passion for litigation. I initially aimed to pursue a dual  specialization with Criminology but couldn’t formally opt for it due to program constraints.  Nevertheless, I chose Criminology as an elective to complement my corporate focus. 

    This combination—Corporate & Commercial Laws with an understanding of Criminology— equipped me with a well-rounded legal perspective. It allowed me to develop the skill set needed  for both corporate advisory roles and litigation practice, offering me flexibility in career direction  while deepening my understanding of complex commercial and criminal legal issues. 

    You’ve worked on landmark constitutional cases like Aadhaar and M. Nagaraj alongside  senior advocates. What were some of the most challenging or rewarding aspects of those matters?  How have those experiences shaped your current approach to litigation? 

    After completing my legal studies, I was fortunate to work under the guidance of  esteemed Legal Professionals, including under Chambers of Advocate-on-Record and prominent Senior Advocates such as Mr. Arun Kathpalia and Mr. Sidharth Luthra. Working in their Chambers  gave me the rare and invaluable opportunity to contribute to Landmark Constitutional matters  such as M. Nagaraj, Aadhaar, Ayodhya, and cases concerning mob lynching, among others. 

    One of the most enriching aspects of these experiences was engaging with complex constitutional  questions and the evolving landscape of public law. Tasks such as conducting in-depth legal  research, preparing concise briefing notes for senior counsels, and closely observing courtroom  strategy helped refine my analytical abilities and broaden my legal perspective.

    What I came to appreciate deeply is that litigation extends far beyond courtroom appearances— it’s about the discipline, consistency, and integrity brought to each stage of a case. The rigorous  process of preparing briefs, anticipating counterarguments, and grasping the wider constitutional  ramifications of a judgment has significantly shaped my litigation approach. I’ve learned to pay  close attention to detail, think critically, and always stay anchored in the constitutional values  underlying each matter. 

    These experiences have cemented my long-term interest in constitutional litigation and criminal  law practice. They’ve also taught me that even behind-the-scenes contributions play a vital role in  shaping outcomes and influencing the development of the law. 

    You’ve had the opportunity to work under Chambers of the most  distinguished Senior Advocates in the country, including Mr. Sidharth Luthra and Mr. Arun  Kathpalia, predominantly in areas like criminal law and insolvency. What were some of your key  takeaways from working in their Chambers, both in terms of legal acumen and professional  growth?

    I began my legal career after completing my studies by joining Chambers of Advocate on-Record Mr. Fuzail Ahmad Ayyubi, who has a robust criminal law practice, followed by Mr.  Sanjay Kapur, a leading counsel for the State Bank of India with a strong practice in civil and  commercial laws. These initial experiences were truly foundational. I was actively involved not  only in legal drafting but also in understanding court procedures and clerical work—skills, which I believe are essential for any young lawyer starting a career in litigation. Gaining this procedural  insight early, gave me a practical edge and helped solidify my interest in courtroom advocacy. 

    While working under AOR’s Chambers, I gradually developed a deep interest in Criminal law. One  of my aspirations was to work under the guidance of Mr. Sidharth Luthra, Senior Advocate— an opportunity I knew would be both rare and competitive, given his stature in the field. Before  joining his chamber, I had the privilege of working with Mr. Arun Kathpalia, Senior Advocate,  who is widely regarded as a top-tier Counsel for complex IBC matters before the Hon’ble Courts. 

    Mr. Kathpalia’s exceptional memory and mastery of Insolvency Law were immensely inspiring.  Assisting him in high-stake matters and undertaking intensive legal research helped me build a  strong foundation in commercial litigation and develop a more strategic, structured approach to  handling complex cases. 

    Eventually, I was fortunate enough to get a chance and join the Chambers of Mr. Sidharth Luthra— a long-standing goal of mine. Working under his mentorship has truly been a best once-in-a lifetime experience. He is a tough master yet a remarkable mentor one can ever have. As I often  say, you may enter his Chamber like a puppy, but you leave it with the strength and discipline of a  Rottweiler. The transformation is that intense, but incredibly rewarding. 

    Mr. Luthra’s Chamber molds you into a well-rounded Litigator, regardless of your area of  specialization. But particularly for someone inclined toward Criminal Law, the exposure is  unmatched. From sharpening your legal research and drafting skills to preparing argument notes  and managing the pressure of a fast-paced litigation environment, you are constantly challenged  to grow. You lose the fear of reading voluminous bulky case files and develop habits that sustain  a long-term career in litigation. 

    While I may never match his brilliance, what I’ve truly tried to internalize are his work ethic, time  management, argumentation style, command over case laws, and unwavering dedication to the craft of advocacy. These experiences have been pivotal in shaping both my legal acumen and  professional outlook, instilling the discipline and resilience required for a meaningful career in  litigation. 

    What inspired you to establish your independent practice? What initial challenges did you  face while setting it up, and what vision did you have for your role as an independent counsel? 

    From the early days of my undergraduate and postgraduate legal studies, I was  determined to immerse myself in every dimension of the law—be it Corporate practice or  Litigation—rather than confining myself to a single niche. My internships across leading Law  Firms and prominent Chambers exposed me to the nuances of drafting, court procedures, and  client handling. But it was through those hands-on experiences that I discovered my deeper  inclination toward Litigation. I came to understand that Litigation isn’t just about mastering  statutes and precedents; it’s about crafting compelling narratives, building trust through  connections and referrals, and delivering real justice to clients. 

    Starting an independent practice as a first-generation lawyer—from a mid-tier city to the legal  landscape of Delhi—was undoubtedly daunting. I had no legacy to rely on, no ready-made client  base, and there were days in the beginning when court appearances were few and far between.  Establishing credibility meant more than just refining my research and drafting abilities; it meant  absorbing the invaluable lessons I learned under mentors like Mr. Arun Kathpalia and Mr. Sidharth  Luthra, developing strong interpersonal and conversational skills with a blend of strong command  over the Laws. 

    The vision behind KH Law Office has always been twofold. First, to build a practice rooted in  integrity, meticulous preparation, and genuine client empathy—ensuring that anyone who walks  through my doors, whether for a criminal matter, commercial dispute, NGT proceeding, or an  IBC case, feels assured that they have a dedicated and dependable advocate. Second, to maintain  intellectual and professional versatility. While my core focus lies in Criminal and White-collar  matters, I actively take up the cases in civil litigation, GST, environmental law, and Insolvency. 

    Today, with established branches in both Delhi and Gorakhpur and a steadily growing practice,  I look back with pride and can say, it was perseverance, belief in myself, and the understanding  that true excellence in Litigation goes beyond specialization, that helped turn my vision of  independent practice into a growing, dynamic reality. 

    As an empanelled legal counsel for the Competition Commission of India, what are some  of the unique challenges that arise in representing regulatory authorities? How do you address  complex, sector-specific legal issues in such matters? 

    Representing a regulatory authority like the Competition Commission of India brings a  unique set of challenges. One of the key responsibilities is to ensure that legal arguments not only  align with statutory mandates but also uphold public interest and regulatory integrity. Unlike  private clients, where strategy often centers on protecting individual interests, working with a  regulator demands a broader, sector-wide perspective. 

    As an independent practitioner, I value the objectivity and responsibility that comes with such  empanelment. It’s not just about winning a case—it’s about reinforcing regulatory frameworks and  promoting fair competition in the economy.

    Many of your publications explore important issues like trials by media, cybercrime, and  gender justice. How do you manage to balance the demands of a full-fledged legal practice, your  commitment to writing on socially relevant topics, and finding time for your personal life? 

    Balancing a full-fledged legal practice with writing on socially relevant topics and  maintaining a personal life does come with its challenges, but it’s something I’ve been passionate  about for a long time. Since my college days, I’ve been actively involved in academic writing and  have had several papers published. After completing my post-graduation, my inclination toward  academia only grew stronger, and I made a conscious decision to pursue it alongside my litigation  practice. 

    Over the years, I’ve delivered lectures on various legal subjects—predominantly in criminal law— which has not only helped me deepen my own understanding but has also allowed me to stay  updated with evolving legal concepts. I genuinely enjoy interacting with law students; those  engagements are often mutually enriching and offer fresh perspectives. 

    Balancing litigation, academic writing, and teaching definitely requires good time management. I  usually try to dedicate some of my weekends—Saturdays and Sundays—to research, writing, or  preparing for lectures. I firmly believe that a lawyer should possess dynamic qualities and should  actively contribute to both the practice and academic sides of the profession. Engaging with the  next generation of legal minds is both energizing and intellectually stimulating, and that’s how I  strive to maintain balance in my professional life. 

    What advice would you offer to young law graduates aspiring to enter litigation? Are  there any specific resources or practices you would recommend to help them stay updated on the  latest legal trends and developments? 

    My genuine advice to young Law graduates aspiring to enter Litigation, especially from  the lens of someone who built an independent practice as a first-generation lawyer with no legal  background, would be this—have a strong vision, stay persistent, and believe in your ability to  grow through the process. 

    Litigation is not about instant rewards—it’s a long game. It tests your patience, builds your  character, and teaches you lessons that no textbook ever can. Many freshers walk into Chambers  asking, “What’s the starting salary?” And while it’s understandable, Litigation doesn’t begin with a  CTC—it begins with court. If your first instinct is to calculate income before understanding the  practice, Litigation might not be for you. This profession pays, but only after it shapes you. It pays  when you’ve shown that you’re worth paying. 

    In the initial phase, your goal should be to learn—not to earn. Some may pay you in the first  month, others may wait until you prove your contribution. What matters is your presence, your  commitment, and your curiosity to grow. 

    My advice: 

    Keep reading—not just judgments and articles, but also good books on legal reasoning, advocacy,  and even biographies of great lawyers. 

    Develop the habit of going through Bare Acts—they are the backbone of Legal interpretation. Strengthen your Legal Research and Drafting Skills—these are the tools of your trade.

    Build your communication skills and cultivate professional relationships—referrals and a good  reputation can take you a long way. 

    Stay updated with legal developments through platforms like SCC Online, LiveLaw, Bar & Bench,  and newsletters by reputed firms or legal portals. 

    Also, don’t try to immediately narrow your focus. In the early years of your independent practice,  take up all kinds of matters—Civil, Criminal, Commercial, Environmental, Tax, IBC—whatever  comes your way. It helps you gain exposure across various Hon’ble Courts and develop command  over a range of subjects. Gradually, you’ll discover where your core interest lies. 

    Ultimately, the path is tough, especially if you’re starting from scratch—but if I could do it with  perseverance and a clear vision, so can you. Stay consistent, stay grounded, and don’t be afraid of  the slow climb. Because in litigation, once you rise, the view is absolutely worth it.

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