Karuna Nundy is a name that resonates with justice, constitutional law, and human rights advocacy in India and beyond. A Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India, Nundy has built an illustrious career fighting for fundamental rights, gender equality, and freedom of speech. Her legal acumen, combined with her unwavering commitment to social justice, has made her a formidable force in India’s legal landscape.
Early Life and Education
Born with an innate passion for justice, Nundy pursued her undergraduate degree in Economics from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University. Her legal journey commenced at the University of Cambridge, where she not only earned her law degree but also served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cambridge University Law Society Journal. She further honed her expertise with an LL.M. from Columbia Law School in New York, supported by a Human Rights Fellowship. This international exposure helped shape her perspective on law as a tool for societal change.
Legal Career and Landmark Cases
Upon returning to India, Nundy quickly made her mark in the Supreme Court. Her diverse legal practice spans constitutional law, commercial litigation, arbitration, and public interest cases. One of her most notable contributions has been her role in advocating for the victims of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy. She has consistently fought for compensation, corporate accountability, and environmental justice for those affected.
Nundy has also played a crucial role in shaping India’s legal framework on gender justice. Following the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, she was instrumental in drafting the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, which introduced stricter punishments for sexual violence. She has also been a vocal advocate for criminalizing marital rape in India, arguing that the exception to rape within marriage violates fundamental rights.
Championing Free Speech and Media Freedom
A staunch advocate of free speech, Nundy played a pivotal role in the landmark Shreya Singhal v. Union of India case, which led to the striking down of Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. This controversial provision was frequently misused to curb online expression and dissent. The Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of free speech marked a significant victory for digital rights and civil liberties in India.
Her expertise in media law and constitutional freedoms has also earned her a position on the High-Level Panel of Legal Experts on Media Freedom, an advisory body supporting the Media Freedom Coalition of States.
Global Recognition and Impact
Beyond India, Nundy has been involved in legal reforms in various countries, assisting in drafting Nepal’s Interim Constitution and advising Bhutan’s government on human rights treaties. Her international contributions and fearless advocacy led to her recognition in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in 2022.
Thought Leadership and Future Vision
Karuna Nundy’s influence extends beyond the courtroom. She is a sought-after speaker at global forums and has contributed thought-provoking articles on constitutional rights, gender justice, and digital freedoms. Her legal insights have been featured in esteemed publications such as The New York Times and CNN.
As India continues to grapple with pressing legal and social challenges, Karuna Nundy remains at the forefront, pushing for reforms that ensure justice, equality, and freedom for all. With her powerful voice and relentless dedication, she exemplifies what it means to be a true crusader for justice in the modern era.
