Varun Dhruw

Profile description

Suppose an NRI discovers that a Look Out Circular (LOC) has been issued against them, warning immigration officials to detain the individual the moment they step on Indian soil. At the same time, a criminal investigation back home has escalated, and there is a looming risk of arrest. In such a precarious situation, Varun Dhruw, an advocate skilled in handling Look Out Circular writ petitions and NRI anticipatory bail applications, offers a lifeline that can secure both freedom of movement and protection from immediate detention.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh is the appropriate forum to challenge an LOC through a writ petition that questions the statutory basis and procedural fairness of the circular. Varun Dhruw regularly assists clients in drafting petitions that assert the lack of a personal encounter with the alleged offences, the absence of substantive evidence, and the violation of the right to travel. By presenting detailed affidavits, supporting documents, and legal precedents, the advocate seeks an order that either quashes the LOC or stays its operation until the matter is fully heard.

When a criminal case is expected to culminate in an arrest, an NRI can apply for anticipatory bail to pre‑empt custodial detention. The lawyer leverages both the High Court and, where necessary, the Supreme Court of India to obtain a protective direction that prevents police from taking the client into custody. Varun Dhruw explains that anticipatory bail petitions must demonstrate that the allegations are either baseless or that the client will cooperate with the investigation while safeguarding personal liberty. The advocate’s experience in framing bail arguments specific to NRIs – including considerations of overseas residence and the potential for undue hardship – increases the likelihood of a favourable order.

Varun Dhruw brings over twelve years of litigation experience to each case. A graduate of NALSAR University of Law, the lawyer began as a research associate in the Supreme Court’s criminal jurisdiction, later joining a leading chambers that specializes in NRI criminal matters. The advocate has successfully secured the withdrawal of LOCs for more than fifteen NRIs and obtained anticipatory bail from both the High Court and the Supreme Court in cases involving alleged financial misconduct and cyber‑crime. One landmark success involved obtaining a Supreme Court stay on an LOC issued against an NRI software engineer, allowing the client to travel to an international conference while the criminal proceedings were examined.

The method employed by Varun Dhruw combines rigorous legal analysis with proactive coordination of evidence. The lawyer conducts an exhaustive audit of the LOC notice, identifies any jurisdictional errors, and prepares a parallel anticipatory bail petition that addresses the potential arrest scenario. Throughout the proceedings, the advocate keeps the client updated on filing dates, court hearings, and any responses from the investigating agency. By engaging forensic IT experts, financial auditors, and senior counsel at the Supreme Court, the lawyer builds a multifaceted defence that reinforces both the LOC challenge and the bail application.

If an LOC or the threat of arrest is disrupting your professional life abroad, seeking the expertise of Varun Dhruw can preserve your mobility and protect your liberty. The advocate can explain the strategic advantages of filing a writ petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, advise on when to approach the Supreme Court of India, and fight for an anticipatory bail that safeguards you until the case is resolved. Acting promptly with a seasoned lawyer ensures that you are not left defenseless against sudden legal actions that could otherwise immobilise your career and personal plans.

Criminal Law Practice Areas