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You completed your B. Com (Hons.) degree in 2002. How did your background in commerce shape your decision to pursue a career in law?
Ah, actually I never dreamt or thought to become an advocate and did my graduation in Commerce to become a Chartered Accountant. Somehow, when I was about to start my studies for CA Exams, I was advised by my Uncle who is a CA himself to choose law as a career. He was of the view that an Advocate has the capability to represent the Client for fervently. I had a passion for justice as I belong to a sub-rural area of Uttar Pradesh and during my schooling days and so of college days, I had seen many such instances of injustice. I will say thanks to almighty to allow me to do graduation in Commerce as the skills and understanding of financial systems and economic principles, which I developed while pursuing my B. Com (Hons.) degree, later proved to be crucial in handling intricate income tax and benami matters. My choice of studying law was certainly not my choice, however, since after completion of my studies of law, pursuing the practice of law was/is not just a career choice for me and in fact, it is a commitment to contribute towards building a fairer society.
After enrolling as an advocate with the Bar Council of Delhi in 2006, how did your early career experiences help you navigate the challenges of becoming a prominent legal professional?
My early years in practice were like stepping into a rigorous legal boot camp.My senior was a very humble person and he always allowed me to appear in Courts and during my 4 and half year stint as an associate in his office, I got the opportunity to travel throughout the Country and had appearance in almost more than half of the High Courts of Country. I had the benefit of doing arbitration, civil and services including Telecom dispute cases. Every brief, every court appearance sharpened my skills. I remember juggling diverse matters, from criminal matters to intricate civil matters. This exposure taught me resilience and the art of crafting compelling arguments. More importantly, it imbibed a sense of humility and the understanding that every case, no matter how small, deserves meticulous attention.
As a Special Public Prosecutor for the Income Tax Department under the Income Tax & Black Money Act, what has been your experience handling cases in this role?
Representing the Income Tax Department has been both challenging and fulfilling. Each case is a battle against financial complexities and ingenious tax evasions. I have been entrusted with the task of prosecuting several high profile cases like Gautam Khaitan, Sanjay Bhandari etc. I have the privilege to be appointed as Special Counsel by the Ministry of Finance to represent prosecution matters at Bhopal as well. So, what I learnt is that, the Officers who are the work force behind these prosecution matters, meticulously examine their cases which is generally the result of hard work and patience. The role of Public Prosecutor does not remain stringent to the documents provided but also to personally examine the merits/demerits and properly opine. Being the SPP, I had the occasion to provide several key opinions which were very well appreciated and the same carried satisfaction in terms of intellectual well being.
As a lawyer with almost two decades of experience, what personal values and principles have guided you throughout your career, and how do you continue to motivate yourself amidst challenging cases?
Integrity and diligence are my north stars. The legal profession demands not just brilliance but a deep sense of responsibility. I’ve always believed that a lawyer’s word should carry as much weight as a legal document. Motivation, for me, comes from the pursuit of justice, knowing that my efforts can shape lives, industries, and sometimes even policies.
As an Arbitrator with the Delhi International Arbitration Centre (DIAC), how do you approach the arbitration process? Could you also share any particularly challenging arbitration cases you have handled and your key findings in that case?
Arbitration is about adjudication of disputes while keeping in mind the sound principles of law, public policy with efficiency. My approach is to foster collaboration while adhering strictly to legal principles. One challenging case related to arbitration is still pending before the Hon’ble Division Bench of High Court of Delhi, however, upto limited extent, i can elaborate by pointing out that the biggest challenge to arbitration is larger time being taken at the stage of objection u/s 34 & further appeal u/s 37 of the Arbitration & Conciliation Act.
Given the demanding nature of your practice and responsibilities, how do you unwind and balance your personal commitments alongside your professional obligations?
Balance is key, though it often feels like an art rather than a science. I find solace in reading, both legal and non-legal literature, and spending quality time with family. Occasionally, a quiet walk or a weekend getaway helps reset my mind, allowing me to return to work with renewed vigor. I love to travel.
How does your law firm KSLO foster an environment of collaboration and continuous learning within the firm to maintain its standing as a multi-disciplinary legal expert?
KSLO thrives on a culture of mentorship and innovation. I always wanted to develop a law firm which would provide easy solutions to its clients and assistance seekers. We actively encourage our team to engage in cross-disciplinary training and discussions. Every team member is both a student and a teacher, sharing insights from diverse cases. This collaborative approach ensures that we stay at the forefront of legal expertise. I am planning to expand more by having offices in different cities of our country.
As a first-generation lawyer, what advice would you give to young law students and aspiring lawyers who wish to excel in the field of litigation and public law?
My advice? Embrace the grind litigation brings in your life. Litigation is a marathon and not a sprint. Don’t forget success comes to those who combine patience with persistence. Never stop learning as laws evolve, and so must you. Most importantly, stay grounded as your integrity and reputation will be your strongest assets in this profession. Last but not the least, stay for a firm time with one good senior who can guide you in the profession.
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