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Synopsis

The Delhi High Court on February 6 hosted a distinguished event, marking the launch of the captivating book titled "At the Pleasure of His Majesty—I. M. Lall and The Case That Shook the Crown," authored by Senior Advocate Chander M. Lall.

The book was formally launched by Justice Hima Kohli, Judge, Supreme Court of India; Justice Sanjay Karol, Judge, Supreme Court of India; Justice Manmohan, Acting Chief Justice, Delhi High Court; Justice (Retd.) Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India; and Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, former CEO of NITI Aayog. 

About the Book 

This book delves into the remarkable life story of I.M. Lall, ICS, the author's grandfather, unveiling his heroic journey and pivotal role in shaping India's legal landscape.

The narrative unfolds the extraordinary saga of IM Lall, ICS, a distinguished figure who defied odds and stood against injustice. IM Lall's remarkable journey began with his service in the British Indian Army during the First World War, where he faced the harrowing siege of Kut Al Amara (modern-day Iraq). Surviving amidst the devastating loss of lives, IM Lall's unwavering spirit propelled him forward.

However, it was his later confrontation with the might of the British Empire that etched his name in history. IM Lall's unprecedented legal battle against his wrongful dismissal by the Crown set a precedent that reverberated throughout India's legal framework. The landmark case, High Commissioner for India and the High Commissioner for Pakistan vs. I.M. Lall, not only secured his reinstatement but also laid the foundation for Article 311 of the Indian Constitution, safeguarding civil servants against arbitrary dismissal.

The book meticulously examines the intricate details of the case, shedding light on the events that precipitated it, including the experiences of his Hindu family in Lahore during Partition.

"At the Pleasure of His Majesty: I.M. Lall and the Case That Shook the Crown" meticulously chronicles IM Lall's journey, offering profound insights into his courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. The book also sheds light on the personal sacrifices endured by IM Lall's family during the tumultuous era of partition, providing a comprehensive narrative of a pivotal chapter in India's history.

About the Author

Chander M. Lall is a designated senior advocate practicing law, mainly in the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court of India. He founded the law firm Lall & Sethi in 1994 and was the managing partner till 2017. He has contributed as a writer to many publications, including Trademark Law and the Internet and Trademark Anti-Counterfeiting in the Asia-Pacific, published by the International Trademark Association. He is considered an authority on intellectual property law and has been the lead counsel in many groundbreaking decisions on the subject.

Watch the book launch here