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Supreme Court Optimistic About Mediation in Sanjay Kapoor Family Trust Dispute

The Supreme Court has expressed optimism regarding the mediation process between Rani Kapoor and Priya Kapoor over the family trust of the late Sanjay Kapoor. The court noted satisfactory progress and encouraged cooperation among all parties involved. With mediation sessions already conducted, the court awaits further reports while emphasizing the importance of resolving the matter amicably to avoid prolonged legal battles. The background of the dispute includes a pending petition challenging the authenticity of Sanjay Kapoor's will, filed by his children. This article delves into the court's guidance and the ongoing legal challenges faced by the Kapoor family.
 

Supreme Court's Remarks on Mediation Progress

The Supreme Court has expressed optimism regarding the ongoing mediation process between Rani Kapoor, the mother of the late businessman Sanjay Kapoor, and his wife, Priya Kapoor. On Thursday, the court noted that the mediation is progressing in a 'satisfactory' manner and expressed hope for a resolution through mutual agreement. Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K. Vinod Chandran reviewed the initial mediation report submitted by the mediator, stating, 'We have observed that the mediation has taken place over six sessions so far.'


Mediator's Engagement with Family Members

The mediator has engaged in discussions with all family members involved. The court expressed satisfaction with the mediation's progress and noted that all parties are cooperating. Additionally, the Supreme Court acknowledged the mediator's request for an extension until November 2 to continue the mediation process.


Court's Guidance on Mediation

The bench advised the parties to approach the mediator with an open mind and heart, emphasizing the importance of avoiding prolonged legal disputes. 'Let the mediation proceed; we will await another report,' the court stated. Furthermore, the court ordered that the mediator's fees be paid from the 'R.K. Family Trust,' and no further arguments should arise regarding this matter. The bench warned that if mediation fails, they would allow the parties to proceed according to the law, but urged them to avoid that scenario.


Background of the Dispute

Previously, the Supreme Court appointed former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud as the mediator in this dispute. On April 27, the court sought responses from Priya Kapoor and others regarding a lawsuit filed by Sanjay Kapoor's mother, which requested the family trust to be declared 'invalid.' During the hearings, the court had encouraged the parties to explore mediation to resolve the family trust issues. Sanjay Kapoor passed away on June 12, 2025, after falling during a polo match, reportedly due to a heart attack.


Ongoing Legal Challenges

Additionally, a petition challenging the authenticity of the alleged will of the deceased by the children of actress Karisma Kapoor is pending in the Delhi High Court, where the children have accused Priya Kapoor of being 'greedy.'