Karnal Singh is the driving force behind the dispute resolution practice at Circle of Counsels. Karnal specializes in advising clients and formulating intricate strategies for some of the most complex and challenging litigations in the country. He is an ex-IPS officer who retired as the Chief of the Enforcement Directorate where he dealt extensively with investigations pertaining to white-collar crimes. He advises clients, on anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, frauds, compliance, economic crime defense, issues related to cryptocurrency & blockchain technology, cyber-crime, and investigations.
With over three decades of distinguished years of experience being an IPS officer, Karnal has extensive knowledge of governance, anti-money laundering investigations, foreign exchange regulation, and criminal investigations. His long tenure as a decorated IPS officer has been commended by the government with distinguished medals like President Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2008, President Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2002 and Satyendra K. Dubey Memorial Award in 2021 which was given by IIT Kanpur to recognize his exemplary service to humanity while serving as an IPS officer.
During his tenure as the Director of the Enforcement Directorate, he also held an additional charge as Director of the Financial Investigation Unit of India (FIU) and contributed to the preparation of the draft Fugitive Economic Offenders Act. Karnal also represented the Government of India before the Financial Action Task Force and Interpol. He led investigations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act relating to the 2G scam, Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Bank of Baroda, Augusta Westland, Panama paper leaks, bank frauds, coal blocks, and iron ore, and cases under Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Karnal Singh also led the Special Cell of Delhi Police which cracked several terrorism cases during his leadership.
The experience of Karnal as a civil servant brings in the viewpoint of an investigations expert and enables him to impart unique and critical strategic advice to tackle investigations and trials led by various enforcement agencies and provide guidance to clients in relation to compliance requirements.
Karnal often writes articles and is invited to speak at various seminars, public events & conferences on topics pertaining to anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, the foreign exchange management act and leadership. He has also authored the book – Batla House: an encounter that shook the nation.