The Supreme Court expressed strong optimism that the long-running estate and trust dispute within the family of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur can be settled amicably out of court. Reviewing a preliminary report from court-appointed mediator and former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, the bench noted that mediation sessions are progressing smoothly and extended the timeline for final settlement to November 2, 2026.
Key Legal Developments & Court Observations
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Positive Mediation Progress: A Supreme Court bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K. Vinod Chandran noted that six mediation sessions have taken place so far with active participation and cooperation from all family members.
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Extended Settlement Timeline: Accepting a request from the mediator, the top court granted additional time until November 2, 2026, for parties to finalize terms.
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Directive on Mediation Costs: The court ruled that fees for the mediator will be paid directly out of the RK Family Trust, ordering that there should be no further debate on the matter.
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Court’s Warning: Admonishing the parties against reverting to protracted legal battles, the bench advised:
“Parties should go before the mediator with an open mind and heart and see to it they don’t get dragged in long-drawn litigation… If the mediation fails, we will allow you all to proceed in accordance with law. But don’t allow that day to come.”
Background of the Dispute
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Core Allegations: Rani Kapur filed a plea seeking to declare the 2017-constituted RK Family Trust “null and void,” claiming a complex web of transactions divested her of sole beneficiary status over her late husband Dr. Surinder Kapur’s estate.
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Context: Sunjay Kapur, former Chairman of automotive component major Sona Comstar, passed away in June 2025. Parallel legal proceedings involving control over his estate and claims by his children are also pending in the Delhi High Court.
