Delhi High Court Urges Mediation in Bitter Sunjay Kapur Estate Battle
The Delhi High Court on Tuesday strongly urged the parties embroiled in a bitter legal battle over the estate of late businessman Sunjay Kapur to explore resolving their dispute through mediation. Justice Mini Pushkarna, presiding over the case, observed that the matter reflected a "very sorry state of affairs" with "dirty linen being washed in the open." The court's remarks came during a hearing that highlighted deep family divisions and allegations of forgery surrounding Kapur's will.
Contentious Claims Over Kapur's Will and Estate
Sunjay Kapur's substantial estate has become the center of a highly contentious dispute before the High Court. His third wife, Priya Sachdev Kapur, has asserted that Kapur bequeathed his entire personal estate to her through a will dated 2025, which she has formally produced before the court. However, this claim faces significant legal challenges.
The will has been vigorously contested by Kapur's former wife, renowned actor Karisma Kapoor, who is acting through their two children. They have alleged that the document is forged, casting doubt on its legitimacy. Adding to the complexity, Kapur's mother, Rani Kapur, has also questioned the authenticity of the will and Priya Kapur's control over the estate. Rani Kapur has filed a separate suit seeking to have the family trust declared illegal, further intensifying the legal wrangling.
Court's Grim Assessment of Family Conflict
According to legal reports, Justice Pushkarna remarked that the dispute paints a grim picture of the family's internal conflict. "This case reflects a very sorry state of affairs," the court stated, adding that "a lot of dirty linen was being washed in the open." The court noted that while all parties had suffered a profound personal loss with Kapur's demise, they had also been blessed with immense financial wealth.
Justice Pushkarna emphasized that this wealth "should be enjoyed by everyone in a good manner" and should not become a source of bitterness or a curse. The court appealed for empathy, recognizing the emotional toll on all involved, particularly highlighting Rani Kapur's advanced age and suffering, as well as Priya Kapur's challenging position as a widow with children to care for.
High-Stakes Trust Valued at Thousands of Crores Under Scrutiny
The court's observations were made during hearings concerning Rani Kapur's suit seeking the cancellation of the family trust, which is reportedly valued at several thousand crores of rupees. In her petition, Rani Kapur has also sought directions to prevent the release of an interim dividend of approximately Rs 28 crore to Priya Kapur. Simultaneously, the Bench considered Priya Kapur's application seeking the rejection of her mother-in-law's suit, with notices issued in both applications.
Court Calls for Proactive Approach and Amicable Settlement
Addressing senior advocate Akhil Sibal, who represents Priya Kapur, Justice Pushkarna urged a more proactive approach toward resolution. "Mr Sibal, this court expects that you will take a more proactive approach in this. Since you are at the helm of the affairs, you can make this happen," the judge stated. The court stressed that the effort should come from both sides to mitigate the suffering of all parties.
As the hearing concluded, the court reiterated its strong recommendation for the parties to seriously consider resolving their dispute amicably through mediation. The Bench emphasized that during any mediation process, the interests of all stakeholders must be carefully safeguarded. The matter is scheduled for its next hearing on March 23, leaving the door open for a negotiated settlement that could spare the family further public acrimony and legal expense.
