In the ongoing multi-billion-dollar property dispute concerning the estate of the late industrialist Sunjay Kapur, the Supreme Court of India invoked themes of spirituality on Thursday, urging his mother and wife to seek an amicable resolution rather than engaging in prolonged conflict.
During the proceedings, the court encountered challenges before the mediation process could begin. Rani Kapur, the mother of Sunjay Kapur, raised concerns about the appointment of two new independent directors to the company, claiming that this move was intended to undermine her influence. Meanwhile, Priya Kapur, the widow, argued that the appointments were being made under the directive of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
A bench comprised of Justices J B Pardiwala and Ujjal Bhuyan advised the parties to approach mediation without preconceived notions. The court also mandated that no directors should be appointed until further notice. Additionally, the bench urged Priya to exercise care towards her mother-in-law, highlighting that Rani Kapur is 80 years old and grieving.
“Put an end to the dispute amicably, or it will be a very long-drawn battle,” the bench cautioned, emphasizing the importance of compromise. The court remarked, “We all came into this world with empty hands, and we have to leave the world with empty hands. All we carry is our souls.”
The Supreme Court appointed former Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud to facilitate mediation on May 7, and instructed both parties to refrain from making public statements regarding the matter.
