RAM JETHMALANI –
Ram Jethmalani (1923-2019) was a prominent Indian lawyer and politician, known for his legal acumen, eloquence, and flamboyant personality. He was one of the most successful and celebrated criminal lawyers in India, and had a legal career spanning over seven decades.
Jethmalani was born in Shikharpur, Sindh, which is now part of Pakistan, and moved to India after the partition in 1947. He earned a law degree from S.C. Shahani Law College in Mumbai and began his legal career in the 1950s. Jethmalani quickly made a name for himself as a criminal lawyer, known for his expertise in cross-examination and his ability to sway juries.
Over the years, Jethmalani represented several high-profile clients, including politicians, Bollywood actors, and corporate honchos, in cases ranging from murder and corruption to terrorism and tax evasion. He was known for his aggressive and confrontational style in court, and his ability to turn seemingly hopeless cases into victories.
Apart from his legal career, Jethmalani was also active in politics and was a member of several political parties over the years. He was a member of parliament in both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, and held several key positions in the government.
Jethmalani was also a prolific writer and penned several books on legal and political issues. He was a strong advocate of individual freedom, civil liberties, and the rule of law, and was known for his outspoken views on a range of issues.
Jethmalani passed away in September 2019 at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy as one of India’s most successful and colorful lawyers.
HARISH SALAVE –
Harish Salve is a prominent Indian lawyer who has made significant contributions to the legal profession in India and abroad. He was born on June 22, 1955, in Warud, Maharashtra, India, and comes from a family of lawyers. His father, N.K.P. Salve, was a well-known lawyer and former Union Minister, and his mother, Ambriti Salve, was a social worker.
Harish Salve completed his law degree from the Government Law College, Mumbai, in 1978, and began his legal career as a chartered accountant. He later joined the bar and quickly gained a reputation as an expert in constitutional law, commercial law, and arbitration.
Over the years, Salve has represented several high-profile clients in India and abroad, including governments, multinational corporations, and individuals. He has appeared in many significant cases, including the Vodafone tax case, the Ratan Tata-Cyrus Mistry dispute, and the Kulbhushan Jadhav case.
Salve has also served as the Solicitor General of India from 1999 to 2002, and was reappointed to the position in 2013. He has been recognized for his contributions to the legal profession with several awards and honors, including the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India, and the International Bar Association’s Outstanding International Lawyer Award.
Apart from his legal career, Salve is also an accomplished musician and is known for his love of Western classical music. He has performed as a cellist with several orchestras in India and abroad, and is also a patron of the arts.
Overall, Harish Salve is widely regarded as one of India’s most talented and successful lawyers, and his contributions to the legal profession and the country’s justice system have been immense.