"Physical verification and getting the right answer to some tough questions is extremely important"

As India continues to attract European investment, the question of governance and compliance has become increasingly central for foreign companies operating in the country. In this interview, Prashant Mara, Managing Partner of BTG Advaya, sheds light on the legal and cultural complexities that French and European businesses often underestimate when entering or expanding in the Indian market.

He explains how differences in regulatory standards, reporting cultures and internal communication can create blind spots between local management and European headquarters, sometimes leading to governance issues or compliance risks. Beyond diagnosis, Prashant shares his perspective on how companies should react when red flags appear — from verifying the facts before launching formal investigations to managing risk without unnecessarily escalating situations toward criminal proceedings.

The conversation also explores the reality of litigation in India, where legal strategy often goes beyond the courtroom. According to Prashant, smart companies use litigation not only as a defensive tool, but also as part of a broader negotiation strategy, while increasingly turning to mediation and interim measures to protect their interests.

Through this exchange, Prashant also highlights BTG Advaya’s industry-focused and business-driven approach, built around a team largely composed of former in-house lawyers who understand both legal risk and operational reality.

Drawing on real-world experience, he offers a clear and practical perspective on how companies can navigate governance and legal complexities in one of today’s most demanding — yet highly promising — global markets.