• Dr. Shyamtanu Pal

Corporate governance plays a crucial role in shaping the framework of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct within companies. The enactment of the Indian Companies Act 2013 introduced significant reforms aimed at enhancing corporate governance practices in India. This paper explores the implications of corporate governance on Indian companies under the Companies Act 2013, with a special focus on shareholder democracy and shareholder activism. The Companies Act 2013 introduced several provisions aimed at promoting shareholder democracy by empowering shareholders and ensuring their active participation in corporate decision-making processes. Provisions such as e-voting, postal ballots, and the appointment of independent directors aim to enhance transparency and accountability, thereby strengthening shareholder rights and promoting democratic principles within corporate governance structures. Furthermore, the Companies Act 2013 also addresses the growing phenomenon of shareholder activism in India. Shareholder activism refers to the proactive efforts undertaken by shareholders to influence corporate behavior and governance practices. The Act provides avenues for shareholders to voice their concerns and hold management accountable through mechanisms such as class action suits, proxy advisory firms, and stringent regulations on related party transactions. This paper examines the impact of shareholder democracy and activism on corporate governance practices in Indian companies under the Companies Act 2013. It analyzes the challenges and opportunities presented by these concepts and discusses their implications for corporate governance standards, investor protection, and overall market dynamics in India. Additionally, the paper highlights the evolving regulatory landscape and the role of stakeholders in shaping the future trajectory of corporate governance in India.

Corporate Governance, Shareholder Activism, Shareholder Democracy

"STRENGTHENING CORPORATE GOVERNANCE: A FOCUS ON SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS AND ACTIVISM IN INDIA", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 4, page no.d156-d166, April-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2404325.pdf

"STRENGTHENING CORPORATE GOVERNANCE: A FOCUS ON SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS AND ACTIVISM IN INDIA", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 4, page no. ppd156-d166, April-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2404325.pdf