Friday, January 17
Attorney General R Venkatramani, former Attorney General KK Venugopal and Dr Lalit Bhasin, President, SILF during the Book Launch (L to R)
SILF ' The Society Of Indian Law Firm's, Concentrated Elite Legal Intelligentsia Of India's Top Corporate Law Firm's Launches Landmark Publication Highlighting Lawyers’ Pivotal Role in Shaping India's History
New Delhi, 15 January 2025: Marking a historic moment in the legal fraternity, the Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) unveiled a groundbreaking publication titled Lawyers in the Freedom Struggle and in Independent India (1872–2022). Authored by Dr Lalit Bhasin, a luminary in the legal fraternity and President of SILF, the book explores the remarkable contributions of lawyers in shaping India’s journey over the past 150 years, encompassing the fight for independence and the evolution of democracy. The book was released by Mr K.K. Venugopal, former Attorney General of India, in the presence of Mr R. Venkataramani, the Attorney General of India, to whom the first copy was ceremoniously presented.
The launch, themed Celebrating 75 Years of the Republic of India and the Constitution of India – Towards Viksit Bharat 2047, was hosted by Mr K.K. Venugopal at his residence, Shantha, Neeti Bagh, New Delhi. The event was graced by eminent members of the legal fraternity, policymakers, and scholars, who lauded the initiative for its significance in preserving and celebrating India’s legal heritage.
Speaking at the event, Dr Lalit Bhasin, President, SILF, remarked, "This book is close to my heart as it captures the indelible legacy of lawyers who have been at the forefront of India’s transformation. From the freedom movement to modern-day governance, the legal fraternity has been a cornerstone of our democracy. This volume is also a tribute to the nearly 1.1 million lawyers practising across the country today, who ensure the wheels of justice continue to turn for the benefit of all citizens. We salute the legal professionals of today, representing a generation of young lawyers who will lead India to the pinnacle of glory by 2047, as the nation celebrates 100 years of independence."
Releasing the book, Mr K K Venugopal, former Attorney General of India, said, "This remarkable publication highlights the legal profession’s vital contributions, from India’s freedom struggle to its vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Lawyers have always been integral to social reform, nation-building, and upholding justice. Visionaries like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Jawaharlal Nehru, Syama Prasad Mukherjee, Subhas Chandra Bose, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, Arun Jaitley, and Sushma Swaraj demonstrated how law can shape a nation. Post-independence, lawyers have upheld this legacy, with the Constitution—our democracy’s DNA—crafted by the genius of the Constituent Assembly, led by luminaries like Dr Ambedkar, Pandit Nehru, and Rajendra Prasad. Today, lawyers and judges remain custodians of the rule of law, amplifying unheard voices and defending fundamental rights in our vibrant democracy."
Receiving the first copy, Mr R Venkatramani, the Attorney General of India, shared his thoughts, "This book is extraordinary in its very conception, and its release in such a personal and intimate manner by a giant of the bar makes it truly special. The history of our Constitution is a story of extraordinary individuals—teachers, zamindars, villagers, and middle-class families—united by the powerful idea of freedom. Their unwavering commitment laid the foundation for the Constitution we hold today, a testament to their vision and perseverance. It is difficult to fathom the relentless pursuit of freedom that motivated them, but their legacy is alive in every fibre of this remarkable document. For lawyers, freedom is not just a struggle but a timeless idea to be nurtured and carried forward. Let us celebrate the lives of these remarkable individuals who shaped the foundations of freedom and the rule of law in our country."
Lawyers in the Freedom Struggle and in Independent India (1872–2022) offers a deep dive into the lives and legacies of the legal luminaries who have been at the forefront of India’s transformation. From the courtroom to the corridors of power, the book chronicles their inspiring journeys, shedding light on their enduring influence in shaping India’s history and democratic ideals. The book also highlights the contributions of key figures, detailing the roles played by 11 Presidents of India, 3 Vice Presidents, 9 Prime Ministers and Deputy Prime Ministers, 13 Lok Sabha Speakers, and 76 Cabinet Ministers, underscoring the significant involvement of legal professionals in shaping India’s political landscape. With meticulously researched insights, it serves as both a tribute and a call to action for the legal community to continue contributing towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) is the apex body of law firms in India, dedicated to advancing the practice of law and fostering professional excellence. SILF works to uphold the highest standards of legal practice and promote the development of the legal profession in India.
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