Singapore: Sheila Ahuja, co-head of the India Group at A&O Shearman, has made history by becoming the first non-resident Indian (NRI) solicitor to be appointed King’s Counsel (KC) in 2024. She is the only solicitor among the 105 candidates selected, with the announcement made on January 24. Ahuja, based in Singapore, is renowned for her expertise in international commercial arbitration and investor-state disputes across the Asia-Pacific and South Asia, including India.

The King’s Counsel title is one of the highest honors in England and Wales, recognizing barristers and advocates for exceptional legal proficiency and advocacy. The rigorous selection process, overseen by an independent panel, evaluates candidates’ legal knowledge, ethical standards, and contributions to justice. Ahuja’s selection is significant as she is the sole solicitor among five solicitors who applied this year.

Alongside Ahuja, Nakul Dewan, a Senior Advocate from India, and Niranjan Venkatesan, a barrister from One Essex Court, have also been appointed KC. They will be officially conferred in March. Dewan specializes in international arbitration, banking, and corporate disputes, while Venkatesan is known for his work in commercial litigation and arbitration, particularly in the energy and natural resources sectors.

Ahuja’s legal expertise includes high-profile disputes in joint ventures, financial products, and infrastructure, and she has served as lead counsel in major arbitration cases under international rules. She is ranked as a leading arbitration specialist in Asia-Pacific by Chambers Asia Pacific 2024.