Punjabi ‘Kada’ Inspires Indian-American Lawyer Neal Katyal in Landmark US Supreme Court Victory

February 21, 2026

An unlikely symbol of cultural pride a Punjabi kada (bangle) became a source of strength for Indian American lawyer Neal Katyal, who played a central role in securing a landmark victory at the Supreme Court of the United States against sweeping tariff powers claimed by former President Donald Trump. Amid intense legal proceedings in November 2025, Katyal posted an image of the kada atop his legal brief with the caption, “Thinking of my father first and foremost… May the Constitution win.” His gesture resonated as a tribute to his roots and the strength it imbued in him during the case.

The Case That Shook US Trade Law

Katyal challenged the legality of Trump’s expansive global tariffs, which had been imposed under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). He argued that the President exceeded his authority by levying broad tariffs on imports without clear congressional authorisation, effectively amounting to unconstitutional taxation a power reserved for Congress under the U.S. Constitution.

In a 6–3 verdict, the Supreme Court agreed with Katyal’s argument, ruling that the tariffs were unlawful because only Congress has the constitutional authority to impose taxes and duties. The judgment was hailed as a major affirmation of constitutional limits on executive power.

‘Son of Immigrants’ at the Heart of the Fight

Born in Chicago to Indian immigrant parents a pediatrician mother and engineer father Katyal takes pride in describing himself as “the son of immigrants.” He has had a distinguished career in the U.S. legal system, including serving as Acting Solicitor General under President Barack Obama and arguing more than 50 cases before the Supreme Court, making him one of the most successful minority advocates in history.

Currently a partner at Milbank LLP and the Paul and Patricia Saunders Professor of National Security Law at Georgetown University Law Center, Katyal’s legal expertise spans constitutional law, national security, and complex litigation. In addition to the tariff case, his career includes major legal battles such as challenging Trump’s 2017 travel ban and defending civil rights legislation.

Cultural Symbolism Beyond the Courtroom

The kada a steel bracelet commonly worn by Sikhs as one of the five articles of faith became more than a personal keepsake. For Katyal, it was a reminder of his heritage and the values instilled by his family. Posting the image during active court proceedings sent a message about where his resilience came from: a blend of personal identity and constitutional conviction.

After the verdict, Katyal remarked that the Supreme Court had reinforced the rule of law in the United States, underscoring that executive authority is powerful but ultimately constrained by the Constitution a principle that struck a chord with both legal observers and the wider public.