Harish Salve

Harish Salve is a name synonymous with legal excellence in India. A Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India and a Queen’s Counsel in the UK, Salve has carved out a niche for himself as one of the most formidable legal minds in the country. Known for his sharp intellect, eloquent arguments, and a deep understanding of the law, Salve has handled some of the most high-profile and complex cases in recent Indian legal history. This article delves into his life, career, and contributions to the field of law, shedding light on what makes Harish Salve a towering figure in the legal world.

Early Life and Education

Harish Salve was born on June 22, 1955, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, into a family with a strong legal and public service background. His father, N.K.P. Salve, was a prominent politician and a member of the Indian National Congress, while his grandfather was a well-respected judge. Salve’s mother, Ambriti Salve, was a doctor. Growing up in such an environment, Salve was naturally inclined towards law and public service.

He completed his schooling at the prestigious Bishop Cotton School in Nagpur and later pursued a degree in Commerce from Nagpur University. However, his passion for law led him to enroll at the Government Law College, Nagpur, where he completed his LLB. He then went on to pursue Chartered Accountancy but soon realized that his true calling was in the legal profession.

Entry into the Legal Profession

Harish Salve began his legal career as a Chartered Accountant, specializing in taxation. However, his interest in the law eventually drew him towards the legal profession. He started his legal practice under the tutelage of eminent lawyer Nani Palkhivala, one of India’s most renowned constitutional lawyers. Palkhivala’s influence had a profound impact on Salve, shaping his understanding of the law and honing his advocacy skills.

In 1980, Salve was admitted to the Bar, and within a few years, he established himself as a leading lawyer in tax law. His expertise in this area soon earned him recognition, and he was appointed as a Senior Advocate by the Delhi High Court in 1992, a significant achievement for someone so young.

Landmark Cases

Harish Salve’s career is dotted with numerous landmark cases that have not only shaped Indian jurisprudence but also brought him widespread acclaim. His ability to tackle complex legal issues with ease and his persuasive arguments have made him the go-to lawyer for high-profile cases. Some of the most notable cases in his career include:

#1. Vodafone Tax Case

One of the most significant cases in Salve’s career was his representation of Vodafone in the tax dispute with the Indian government. The case revolved around a $2.5 billion tax demand by the Indian authorities on Vodafone’s acquisition of Hutchison Essar’s stake in India. Salve argued that the transaction was not taxable under Indian law, as it was conducted offshore. The Supreme Court of India ruled in favor of Vodafone, a landmark judgment that was widely hailed as a victory for foreign investors in India.

#2. Kulbhushan Jadhav Case

Another high-profile case that brought Salve international recognition was his representation of India at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. Jadhav, a former Indian Navy officer, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage. Salve argued that Pakistan had violated the Vienna Convention by denying India consular access to Jadhav. The ICJ ruled in favor of India, ordering Pakistan to stay Jadhav’s execution and grant consular access.

#3. Ayodhya Dispute

The Ayodhya dispute is one of the most contentious legal battles in Indian history, involving the construction of a Ram temple at the site of the Babri Masjid. Salve was part of the legal team representing the Hindu parties in the case. The Supreme Court’s verdict, which allowed the construction of the temple, was a historic moment in Indian legal history, and Salve’s contributions were instrumental in securing the outcome.

#4. Enron Case

Salve represented the Maharashtra State Electricity Board (MSEB) in its dispute with the US energy giant Enron. The case revolved around allegations of inflated power tariffs and contractual violations by Enron’s Indian subsidiary, Dabhol Power Company. Salve’s arguments led to the termination of the contract, marking a significant victory for MSEB.

International Legal Career

Harish Salve’s legal prowess is not confined to Indian courts. In 2013, he was appointed as a Queen’s Counsel (QC) in the United Kingdom, a rare honor for an Indian lawyer. This appointment allowed him to practice law in the UK, where he has represented several high-profile clients in commercial and international arbitration cases. His expertise in international law and arbitration has made him a sought-after lawyer in global legal circles.

Personal Life and Interests

Despite his busy legal career, Harish Salve has managed to maintain a balance between his professional and personal life. He is known for his love of music, particularly Western classical music, and is an accomplished pianist. Salve is also passionate about cricket, a sport that runs in his family, given his father’s involvement in Indian cricket administration.

Recognition and Awards

Over the years, Harish Salve has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the legal profession. In 2005, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in recognition of his distinguished service in the field of law. He has also been ranked among the top legal professionals globally by various legal publications.

indianfastearning.comimage

Conclusion

Harish Salve’s journey from a small town in Maharashtra to becoming one of the most respected legal minds globally is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and brilliance. His contributions to Indian and international law have left an indelible mark, and his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of lawyers. Whether it is his landmark victories in the courtroom or his contributions to the legal profession, Harish Salve remains a towering figure whose influence transcends borders.

www.utube.comhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFb-pDNQiqw&pp=ygUMSGFyaXNoIFNhbHZl