Delhi High Court Recognizes 11 Women as Senior Advocates
On July 9, 2026, the Delhi High Court granted the prestigious title of Senior Advocate to 85 lawyers, including 11 remarkable women. We had the opportunity to speak with these newly designated women about their impactful careers, challenges faced, and their plans to inspire the next generation, particularly women in the legal profession.
Abha Malhotra: Pioneering in Arbitration and Perseverance
Abha Malhotra has been practicing for 32 years across various legal fields, now focusing on arbitration. A key highlight in her career, HMM v. Union of India, addressed essential excise duty principles. Malhotra attributes her success to the supportive environment of the Delhi High Court and her family. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance and mentorship for upcoming women lawyers, inspired by her father, AC Gulati.
Amrit Kaur: A Devotion to Civil Law and Work-Life Balance
Since 1988, Amrit Kaur has primarily engaged in civil law, starting in the chambers of Gyan Singh Vohra. Noteworthy cases include a matrimonial dispute resolved at the Supreme Court. Kaur acknowledges the support from senior lawyers and emphasizes the importance of a positive work environment for young advocates, underscoring perseverance and integrity.
Anju Bhattacharya: Advocate for Legal Empowerment
With over four decades in law, Anju Bhattacharya specializes in constitutional and commercial litigation. Her significant involvement in Union Public Service Commission v. Nidhi Pandey reflects her commitment to public service. Bhattacharya aims to support young women lawyers, sharing her experiences of overcoming gender biases and establishing a successful career.
Beenashaw Nanda Soni: Championing Equal Educational Rights
Practicing for more than 30 years, Beenashaw Nanda Soni has been involved in constitutional and civil matters. A memorable case involved securing educational rights for a young girl, an experience that inspired her ongoing pro bono work. Soni views her senior designation as both an honor and a responsibility to support future women leaders in law.
Kanika Agnihotri: Inspired by Legal Giants
With a background in civil and commercial litigation, Kanika Agnihotri draws inspiration from her family and esteemed colleagues. Her career includes significant cases regarding constitutional petitions, driving her passion to continue influencing the legal landscape positively.
Mamta Tiwari: Pioneer in International Arbitration
Mamta Tiwari’s 29-year career spans various legal fields, with a notable role in India’s first Bilateral Investment Treaty arbitration. She advises young lawyers to remain persistent and emphasizes that integrity and hard work are invaluable assets in the profession.
Manali Singhal: Advocating for Gender Justice
Manali Singhal’s career is marked by her commitment to gender justice, influenced by her involvement in the Justice Sunanda Bhandare Foundation. Despite challenges, she continues to support women’s empowerment, inspired by senior advocates like Indira Jaising.
Maneesha Dhir: Navigating Complex Legal Landscapes
Maneesha Dhir has built a career in corporate and commercial litigation, contributing to policy-making and legal reforms. Her journey reflects the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, and she is committed to mentoring the next generation of lawyers.
Rajeshwari Hariharan: Trailblazer in Intellectual Property Law
Rajeshwari Hariharan’s expertise in intellectual property law has led to landmark cases that impact innovation and competition. She advocates for young women lawyers to embrace challenging roles and build their competence in a supportive environment.
Sangeeta Bharti: Legal Excellence and Integrity
Sangeeta Bharti’s career highlights include significant constitutional and water dispute cases. She encourages young women to believe in themselves and to pursue their careers with integrity, aiming for gender parity in the legal profession.
Warisha Farasat: Advocate for Justice and Equality
With nearly two decades in law, Warisha Farasat emphasizes the importance of credibility and resilience. Her inspiration stems from constitutional pioneers, urging young women lawyers to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice and equality.
