Supreme Court Optimistic About Mediation in Kapur Family Dispute
The Supreme Court of India recently expressed confidence in the ongoing mediation efforts aimed at resolving the family dispute involving the late industrialist Sunjay Kapur’s family. The dispute centers around control over the Kapur family trust and its associated assets, with parties hoping to reach an amicable settlement through mediation.
A bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran acknowledged that the mediation, overseen by former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, is making satisfactory progress. This observation was made following the submission of a preliminary report on August 5, indicating that the parties are cooperating effectively.
Progress in Mediation Sessions
The Court noted that six mediation sessions have already been conducted. These sessions have involved detailed discussions among family members about their respective claims and rights within the trust structure. The mediator, Justice DY Chandrachud, has facilitated these discussions, with the assistance of a senior chartered accountant and a tax expert to address financial complexities.
The Court permitted the continuation of mediation until November 2, expressing hope that the cooperative spirit seen so far would lead to a comprehensive settlement. The Bench reminded the family to approach these discussions with an open mind and heart, emphasizing the advantages of mediation over lengthy litigation.
Details of the Dispute
The legal battle began with a suit filed by Rani Kapur, the mother of Sunjay Kapur, who alleged exploitation by her late son and his wife, Priya Kapur, following a stroke she suffered in 2017. Rani Kapur claims her assets were transferred to the family trust without her consent, and she was coerced into signing documents under misleading pretenses.
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The dispute escalated after Sunjay Kapur passed away in June of the previous year, leading to allegations against Priya Kapur for seizing control of significant parts of the Sona Group and family assets. Rani Kapur contends that her share has been unfairly diminished, leaving her without resources.
In parallel, Sunjay Kapur’s children from his former marriage to actress Karisma Kapoor have approached the Delhi High Court. They accuse Priya Kapur of fabricating Sunjay’s will to consolidate control over the estate. The High Court granted an interim injunction on April 30, preventing Priya Kapur from transferring or creating third-party rights over these assets.
Legal Representation and Mediation Efforts
Rani Kapur’s representation includes Senior Advocates Siddharth Dave and Vaibhav Gaggar. On the other side, the respondents, including Priya Kapur, are represented by Senior Advocates Sheryl Trehan and Abhimanyu Bhandari, with Senior Advocate Mahesh Jethmalani also participating in the proceedings.
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The Supreme Court appointed former CJI DY Chandrachud as the mediator after all parties agreed to explore a mediated resolution. The Court is scheduled to receive another report from the mediator, which will further shape the proceedings and potential settlements.
