Arundhati Katju is a senior advocate practicing at the Supreme Court of India, known for her work in constitutional law, criminal justice, and human rights. Over the years, she has built a strong reputation for advocating gender rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and criminal justice reform. Her contributions to the legal field have earned her international recognition, including a place in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in 2019.
Early Career and Education
Katju pursued her legal education at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore, where she developed her expertise in constitutional law and advocacy. Her academic background and commitment to justice set the foundation for her legal career, leading her to work on some of India’s most significant cases.
Landmark Achievements: LGBTQ+ Rights and Legal Reforms
One of Katju’s most well-known cases was the 2018 decriminalization of homosexuality in India. Alongside fellow lawyer Menaka Guruswamy, she played a key role in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India, in which the Supreme Court struck down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. This ruling marked an important step for LGBTQ+ rights in India, affirming legal recognition and equality. Katju and Guruswamy’s legal efforts were widely acknowledged, both in India and internationally.
Legal Career and Advocacy
In addition to her work on LGBTQ+ rights, Katju has established herself as an expert in criminal law, white-collar defense, and constitutional litigation. She has represented clients in high-profile criminal cases, commercial disputes, and human rights matters. Her work also includes policy reform and arbitration, contributing to legal discussions on various national and international platforms.
Katju has been actively involved in advocating for prison reforms, access to justice, and gender equality. Beyond courtroom litigation, she regularly engages in discussions on law, democracy, and social justice.
Recognition and Influence
In 2019, TIME magazine recognized Katju and Menaka Guruswamy in its 100 Most Influential People list for their role in decriminalizing homosexuality in India. This acknowledgment placed her among prominent legal professionals making a significant impact in the field of human rights and constitutional law.
Future Focus
Katju continues to work toward expanding LGBTQ+ rights, marriage equality, and legal protections against discrimination. She is also involved in criminal justice reform, gender rights, and broader constitutional law issues.
Her contributions to the legal field continue to shape discussions on justice, equality, and democratic freedoms in India.
