Overview of the Delhi High Court Proceedings
The ongoing inheritance dispute surrounding late businessman Sunjay Kapur took a dramatic turn in the Delhi High Court as Karisma Kapoor’s children, Samaira and Kiaan, challenged the authenticity of their father’s alleged will. Senior advocates and court proceedings have focused on the document’s language, origin, and the apparent control of the estate.
Allegations About the Will’s Language
In arguments before Justice Jyoti Singh, senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani spotlighted what he called striking inconsistencies in the document. He pointed to repeated references to Sunjay Kapur using feminine pronouns such as “she” and “her,” which he argued is implausible for a man known for precision in public life. He described the usage as “not just implausible but deeply incriminating,” suggesting the will’s language undermines its credibility.
Specific textual Anomalies
Jethmalani drew attention to a clause that reads, “Signed and declared by Sunjay Kapur the testatrix above named as and for her last will.” He described the phrasing as an absurdity that could not have emanated from Sunjay Kapur, and suggested that the document’s phrasing undermines the person who purportedly signed it. The senior lawyer argued that such language would be inconsistent with Sunjay Kapur’s known character and public image.
<h2 Questions About the Will’s Origin and Drafting
The hearing also raised concerns about who drafted the document. Jethmalani noted that there is limited physical evidence—no handwriting samples, photos, or visible drafting traces—and that the alleged digital footprint raises questions about authenticity. He pointed out that neither Priya Kapur nor the two witnesses to the will have provided a clear affidavit detailing who authored the document or where and when it was drafted.
Impact on Family and Estate Distribution
The proceedings have touched on sensitive family dynamics, including the omission of Sunjay Kapur’s mother, Rani Kapur, from the will’s terms. Jethmalani argued that this exclusion, if deliberate, raises questions about the document’s motivation and its alignment with Sunjay Kapur’s past care for his family. The court is examining whether the alleged will reflects the true wishes of Sunjay Kapur or if it represents a contested attempt by others to gain control of the estate.
<h2 Alleged Estate Takeover and Legal Strategy
Alongside questions of language and origin, counsel discussed the practical implications of the will’s provisions. Jethmalani described Priya Kapur’s recent control over a substantial portion of the estate as a possible “takeover under the guise of widowhood.” He noted misspellings, incorrect addresses, an informal tone, and other irregularities as indicators that the document may not be a genuine, Sunjay Kapur-authored will. He also questioned why the document was not registered, a step expected in a clear and legally enforceable inheritance instrument.
<h2 Next Steps in Court
The Delhi High Court is expected to continue examining these questions, with hearings scheduled to resume in October. The outcome could have significant implications for the family and for the estate’s distribution. While Priya Kapur’s representatives dismissed the petition as driven by personal gain, the case underscores the scrutiny courts place on will validity, especially in high-profile families where assets and reputations are at stake.
