Dr Manoj Kumar (L), R Venkataramani (C), and Dr Lalit Bhasin at the IACC Summit on India-US Legal Services organized at New Delhi. (Photo: IACC)
New Delhi: The attorney general of India, R Venkataramani, has proposed the establishment of an India-United States comparative and collaborative law platform. This initiative aims to foster vibrant exchange platforms within the domains of law and justice. Speaking at the inaugural “India-US Legal Services Summit on Indo-US Cooperation on Corporate and Legal Issues”, organized by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) on Monday, the attorney general emphasized the need for a global legal common premised on shared knowledge and resources.
Venkataramani highlighted the significant role played by Indians in the American economy and their prominent positions within the country's legal sector.
He said, “The success of Indians in the legal field is a remarkable story. Alongside this, we must create enduring and dynamic exchange platforms in the realms of law and justice. An Indo-US comparative and collaborative law platform can be envisioned.” He further added, “Our vision and goal should be a global legal framework based on universal knowledge and resources. Additionally, the intersection of human rights, well-being, and wealth protection should be a key agenda.”
The attorney general stressed the importance of globally relevant gatherings within the legal fraternity. “We require more debates and deliberations on common concerns,” he asserted.
As bilateral engagement between India and the United States continues to grow in terms of business and investments, Tushar Mehta, India’s solicitor general, urged the IACC and attendees to consider establishing a permanent mechanism. Such a mechanism would allow investors and businesses from both countries to seek legal assistance and consultation regarding investments in India and the US. Noting the need for legal advisory services for investors, the solicitor general proposed the establishment of a specific centre dedicated to providing such assistance.
Discussing the importance of the rule of law in both India and the United States, Dr Manoj Kumar, additional secretary at India’s law ministry (legislative department), stated, “The rule of law is a fundamental principle in both Indian and US legal systems, while acknowledging their differences. It serves as the backbone of governance frameworks in both countries. Key components, including a firm constitutional foundation, an independent judiciary, equality before the law, ease of access to justice, and robust human rights guarantees, form the bedrock of the rule of law in both nations.”
Dr Kumar also recognized that addressing development goals in both economies requires ongoing engagement to foster global sustainability and prosperity.
The summit aims to strengthen India-US relations, especially as India aspires to become a developed nation by 2047. Dr Lalit Bhasin, chairman of the IACC National Committee on Legal Services, emphasized the responsibility of legal professionals from both countries to continue cooperating. He highlighted the excellent relationships between the American Bar Association, the Bar Association of India, and the Society of Indian Law Firms, which regularly engage in joint events and exchanges.
In his keynote address at the inaugural ceremony, Shardul Shroff, executive chairman of Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas and Company, emphasized the need for sustained engagement between the two countries, particularly in terms of sustainability and efforts to combat climate change.
Pratibha Jain, chairperson of the American Bar Association (ABA) South Asia/Oceania and India Committee, emphasized the importance of pluralism and diversity in both the US and India. However, she highlighted the need for greater representation of women in top leadership positions within India’s private sector. Currently, their share remains lower compared to other economies.
