Who is KK Venugopal, the new Attorney General of India?
KK Venugopal, India's new Attorney General, is a senior Supreme Court advocate who hails from Kerala. The 86-year-old started his legal career in Mysore in 1954, before practising at the Madras High Court under his father. He grew up in Mangalore and studied law at Raja Lakhamgouda Law College, Karnataka. He was conferred with the Padma Vibhushan in 2015.
After Mukul Rohatgi wrote to the government earlier this month expressing his disinterest in continuing as the Attorney General, senior lawyer KK Venugopal's name is likely to be announced by the Centre soon. The announcement could be made on the weekend as the Supreme Court opens on Monday.Rohatgi had fiercely defended the government at critical legal battles at the Supreme Court and is known for his aggressive and combative style. Venugopal is a veteran lawyer who is known for his calm style and detail. He is regarded an authority on constitutional law.Sources in the Law Ministry say that Venugopal's name is likely to be announced once the Prime Minister returns to the country.