9th CARTAL Conference on International Arbitration – Register Now!

The Centre for Advanced Research and Training in Arbitration Law (CARTAL) at National Law University, Jodhpur is pleased to announce the 9th CARTAL Conference on International Arbitration, scheduled for March 22-23, 2025. In collaboration with Jus Mundi, Kluwer Arbitration, and SCC Times as the media partner, this prestigious event promises to offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of arbitration law.

The Centre for Advanced Research and Training in Arbitration Law (CARTAL) at National Law University, Jodhpur, is proud to announce its 9th CARTAL Conference on International Arbitration, set to take place on March 22-23, 2025. This highly anticipated event, organized in collaboration with Jus Mundi and Kluwer Arbitration, along with SCC Times as the exclusive media partner, aims to explore cutting-edge issues and trends in the field of international arbitration.

The conference is designed to bring together a diverse group of professionals, including academicians, practitioners, research scholars, and students. This event will provide a platform for engaging discussions, intellectual exchange, and networking with experts in the field. The conference will feature paper presentations and panel discussions on contemporary arbitration topics, allowing participants to delve into the complexities and advancements shaping the world of international arbitration.

Why Attend?

The 9th CARTAL Conference offers attendees a chance to immerse themselves in the latest trends and developments within the arbitration sector. It provides a unique opportunity to learn from top experts, present research, and engage in meaningful conversations with like-minded professionals. With sessions dedicated to practical issues and theoretical developments, this conference promises to be a valuable experience for anyone involved or interested in arbitration law. Additionally, participants will enjoy networking opportunities, including a networking dinner, where they can connect with peers and experts in a more informal setting.

Conference Themes

We invite participants to submit their abstracts on the following conference themes:

  1. Revolutionizing Arbitration with Emerging Technologies – This theme will explore how new technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and digital tools are transforming arbitration procedures and enhancing efficiency.
  2. Institutional Arbitration: Navigating Legal Frameworks and Enhancing Procedural Efficiency – This theme will focus on the evolving role of institutional arbitration, addressing the challenges and opportunities in improving legal frameworks and procedural efficiency in institutional settings.

Who Can Participate?

This conference is open to a wide range of individuals, including students pursuing LL.B./LL.M., academicians, research scholars, and practitioners with an interest in international arbitration law. Whether you’re a student eager to learn or a seasoned professional wishing to share insights, this conference is designed to provide value to all participants.

Registration Details

The registration fee for the conference includes access to all sessions, accommodation, and meals. Travel expenses are not covered; however, local conveyance from the accommodation to the university will be provided.

  • Academicians/Practitioners: ₹3000 per person
  • Students/Research Scholars: ₹2000 per person

How to Register?

To register, please fill out the online registration form available here: Google Form. The registration deadline is March 7, 2025. Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to engage with thought leaders in the field of international arbitration!

Important Dates

  • Registration Deadline: March 7, 2025
  • Conference Dates: March 22-23, 2025

For any queries or additional information, please contact ijal@nlujodhpur.ac.in or call +91 8454867872.

We look forward to welcoming you to the 9th CARTAL Conference on International Arbitration at National Law University, Jodhpur—a truly enriching and intellectually stimulating experience for all attendees!


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Can a Company Secretary Be Held Criminally Liable? A Legal Deep-Dive

Can a Company Secretary be arrested like Directors if something goes wrong?

That casual question from a batchmate recently sparked a serious inquiry. While directors and promoters are often in the spotlight when corporate scandals break, the role of the Company Secretary (CS) is equally critical—and legally, not immune.

Let’s break it down from a legal standpoint.


Legal Framework: Company Secretary as KMP

Under the Companies Act, 2013, a Company Secretary is classified as Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) [Section 2(51)] and can be treated as an officer in default [Section 2(60)].

This doesn’t mean every CS is automatically liable for corporate misconduct, but if something does go wrong—especially in areas involving compliance, disclosure, or fraud—a CS may have to answer for it.


Criminal Provisions You Should Know

Section 447 – Fraud

If a CS is found guilty of being involved in corporate fraud:

  • Imprisonment: 6 months to 10 years
  • Fine: 1–3 times the amount involved
  • Note: If fraud involves public interest, minimum imprisonment is 3 years

Section 92 – False or Non-Filing of Annual Returns

If the CS knowingly omits material facts or submits a false return:

  • Fine: Up to ₹50,000
  • Imprisonment: Up to 6 months (though now largely decriminalized)

Section 134 – False Board Report / Financials

A CS who signs off on inaccurate reports can face:

  • Imprisonment: Up to 3 years (now decriminalized)
  • Fine: Up to ₹50,000

Section 448 – False Statements

Making knowingly false statements in filings or reports:

  • Imprisonment: Up to 10 years
  • Fine: Equal to the fraud amount
  • Minimum 3 years if the fraud involves public interest

Landmark Judgments: What the Courts Say

Niranjan Hemchandra Sashittal v. State of Maharashtra (2013)

Key Takeaway: Simply holding a title isn’t enough for prosecution. But willful inaction or silent consent to fraud can justify criminal liability.


SEBI v. Pyramid Saimira Theatre Ltd. (2015)

Key Takeaway: A CS signed off on a fraudulent letter to SEBI. The court emphasized that a signature has legal consequences—blindly approving documents is not a valid defense.


NSEL Scam Case (2013)

Key Takeaway: The CS did not raise red flags despite knowing of internal irregularities in a ₹5,600 crore scam. Courts ruled that failure to act can make even non-promoter officers criminally liable.


How Can a CS Protect Themselves?

Here are key steps every Company Secretary must follow to stay legally protected:

  1. Verify before you sign: Ensure all documents and filings are accurate and complete. Don’t rely solely on team inputs.
  2. Speak up: Escalate concerns to the Board or Audit Committee in writing—especially if red flags surface.
  3. Maintain records: Keep written evidence of objections raised, concerns flagged, and the company’s responses.
  4. Don’t rubber-stamp: Avoid signing documents without full understanding. If something feels off—investigate first.

Final Thoughts

Yes, a Company Secretary can be held criminally liable under Indian law—especially when compliance lapses or fraudulent acts occur under their watch. While the title comes with prestige and trust, it also carries serious responsibility.

The key is to stay vigilant, document everything, and never compromise integrity for convenience. Being proactive isn’t just best practice—it could be the difference between being a professional and being a co-accused.

Written By Hitendra Singh

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