When asked to pen a piece on the late Iqbal Chagla, I was struck by the enormity of the task. What could I add to the narrative of a man who has been described as a giant in the legal world and revered by so many? To me, he was more than an extraordinary lawyer; he was an institution—and my uncle.
My interactions with him began during an internship that remains one of the most impactful experiences of my career. Later, as a returning Barrister from the UK, I was fortunate to have his guidance—through emails, phone calls, and in-person meetings during visits to Bombay, the Supreme Court in Delhi, and Nani Palkhivala Foundation conferences. His wisdom was a compass for many young lawyers, including myself.
Early Beginnings and Academic Brilliance
Iqbal Chagla’s academic journey was as stellar as his professional one. After earning his degree in Law and History at Cambridge University and being called to the Bar at Gray’s Inn, he returned to India earlier than planned to begin his legal practice in the chambers of KharshedjiHormasji Bhabha. His intellectual versatility, which spanned literature and journalism, remained evident throughout his life.
Work Ethic And Mentorship
One of the defining aspects of Chagla’s career was his unparalleled work ethics. He worked tirelessly and expected no less from his team.My internship with him was a masterclass in diligence, ethics, and excellence. He exposed me to the crème de la crème of the Bombay Bar and shared fascinating insights about the illustrious Chagla lineage.
Landmark Cases
Iqbal Chagla’s legal acumen was exemplified in several high-profile cases, some recent ones include:
• Dr. Anahita Pandole vs. State of Maharashtra (2008): Represented Dr. Pandole in a pioneering PIL against illegal hoardings in Mumbai, setting a precedent for public interest litigation.
• Nestlé India vs. Food Safety and Standards Authority (2015): Successfully argued for the export of Maggi noodles during its controversial ban, showcasing his strategic brilliance.
• AmarchandMangaldas Family Dispute (2015): Played a pivotal role in mediating the rift between Cyril and Shardul Shroff over their mother’s will, leading to the division of one of India’s most prominent law firms.
• Post-26/11 PIL (2009): Filed a petition seeking a Citizens Coordination Committee to enhance Mumbai’s safety measures following the tragic terror attacks.
Championing Integrity and Justice
Integrity was the cornerstone of Chagla’s career. As President of the Bombay Bar Association, he upheld the highest ethical standards, never hesitating to confront corruption or injustice. He often reiterated that the practice of law is a profession, not a trade.
In an interview with LiveLaw, he advised young lawyers to approach their careers with dignity, reminding them that financial success would naturally follow if they adhered to the profession’s core values.
A Personal Reflection
On a personal note, Iqbal Chagla was a man I deeply admired. His intelligence, wit, and warmth left an indelible impression on everyone he met. His ability to tell it like it is, combined with his unwavering sense of justice, made him a true giant in every sense of the word.
—The writer is a barrister-at-law, Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn, UK, and a leading advocate in Chennai. With research inputs by Adithi K