Dr. Adish C. Aggarwala Shares His Journey and Insights with Young DMET Maritime Leaders in Hong Kong

We are delighted to share that DMECA Hong Kong & DMET Club had the privilege of hosting Dr. Adish C. Aggarwala, an eminent legal authority, in Hong Kong today. This momentous occasion brought together two distinguished young maritime leaders from our community, DMETIan Apurba Verma Sir and DMETian Pankaj Thakur Sir, for an insightful discussion on various legal and maritime-related issues.

During the interaction, Dr. Aggarwala shared his incredible legal journey, spanning decades of experience across multiple domains, including constitutional law, international law, corporate law, and legal reforms. He discussed his experiences working with ten successive Indian central governments and his contributions to shaping legal education and policy frameworks.

The conversation also touched upon critical maritime concerns, such as taxation policies for seafarers, advancements in shipbuilding, and regulatory challenges. While the discussion was not solely focused on maritime law, Dr. Aggarwala’s insights into legal structures and frameworks provided a broader perspective on governance, legal compliance, and industry regulations.

Dr. Aggarwala has graciously committed to extending his support to DMECA, DMET Club, and the broader maritime community. With his vast legal knowledge and esteemed position in the legal fraternity, he is eager to collaborate with industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to drive meaningful reforms and policy enhancements.

About Dr. Adish C. Aggarwala – A Stalwart of Indian and International Legal Circles

Academic and Professional Accomplishments

Dr. Adish C. Aggarwala is a gold medalist, a Ph.D. in Law, and a designated Senior Advocate. He has held numerous prestigious positions, including:

President of the Supreme Court Bar Association (2023-2024)
President, International Council of Jurists, London
President, International Commission of Writers, Geneva
Chairman, All India Bar Association
President, National Citizens Committee
Convener, Indian Council of Jurists
Chairman, India Legal Information Institute
Secretary-General, All India Senior Advocates Association

Notable Legal Positions Held

Dr. Aggarwala has had a distinguished career in legal advocacy, holding key governmental positions such as:

Senior Additional Advocate General for the Government of Haryana
Additional Advocate General for the Governments of Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab
Special Counsel and Senior Central Government Counsel in the Supreme Court of India

His contributions to legal education in India are unparalleled. As a former Acting Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council of India, he played a crucial role in shutting down over 150 sub-standard law schools and establishing 140 new institutions, significantly elevating the standards of legal education.

Influence on Legal and Policy Matters

Dr. Aggarwala has advised and represented ten successive Indian central governments, from the tenure of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His expertise has been sought after in various judicial and policy-making initiatives across India and globally.

As a renowned author and thought leader, he has penned several authoritative books, including multiple revised editions of The Constitution of India, recognized and released by various Indian presidents, prime ministers, and chief justices.

Key Contributions to Legal Literature

The Constitution of India (2008, 2011, 2012, 2014) – Forewords contributed by eminent Indian legal luminaries and ministers
Mulla’s Code of Civil Procedure (2021) – A definitive legal reference
Concepts of International Law – Released by the President of the International Court of Justice
Narendra Modi – A Charismatic and Visionary Statesman – Co-authored with British author Sarah Marchington
Narendra Modi – Harbinger of Prosperity & Apostle of World Peace – Published in ten international languages and ten Indian languages

Global Legal Engagements

Dr. Aggarwala has represented India on multiple international legal forums and collaborated with global legal dignitaries, including Chief Justices, Supreme Court Judges, and Law Ministers from the UK, USA, Canada, Singapore, Bangladesh, Bhutan, UAE, Qatar, Spain, and several African nations.

As the head of International Council of Jurists, London, All India Bar Association, Supreme Court Bar Association, and National Citizens Committee, he has hosted events attended by esteemed dignitaries such as Presidents, Vice Presidents, Prime Ministers, Speakers of Lok Sabha, and Chief Justices of India.

The Way Forward – Strengthening Legal and Industry Collaborations with DMECA & DMET Club

The discussion in Hong Kong has opened new avenues for collaborations between the legal and maritime sectors. While not solely focused on maritime law, Dr. Aggarwala’s legal insights and commitment to addressing industry concerns will be a valuable asset to the maritime community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Aggarwala for his time, insights, and commitment to supporting the aspirations of seafarers and maritime professionals. His guidance will undoubtedly be instrumental in shaping legal frameworks that address the evolving challenges of taxation, shipbuilding, and maritime law enforcement.

Stay tuned for further updates on how DMECA, DMET Club, and Dr. Aggarwala will work together in advocating for policy changes and legal reforms that uplift the maritime industry

Interestingly, an important milestone was achieved in India's shipping sector as the Lok Sabha passed the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, modernizing a 169-year-old colonial shipping law. This legislative reform marks a transformative step in India's maritime legal framework.

The Passing of the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 – A Historic Reform

In an effort to support the country’s growing shipping sector, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, introduced the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, which aims to update and simplify the legal framework for shipping documents. This proposed legislation replaces the outdated Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856, ensuring a modern and user-friendly approach to maritime shipping.