The inheritance dispute surrounding the estate of late businessman Sunjay Kapur has escalated, involving claims from his children with ex-wife Karisma Kapoor. They allege that their stepmother, Priya Sachdev Kapur, has unfairly excluded them from his will. Recently, the Supreme Court issued a notice to Karisma in response to a plea filed by Priya.
On Friday, the Supreme Court instructed Karisma to respond to Priya’s request for a copy of the divorce documents between Karisma and Sunjay. The court is allowing Karisma two weeks to provide her reply to this plea, revealing the ongoing legal complexities surrounding the estate.
Priya’s plea aims to access confidential records from the divorce proceedings that took place in 2016. She seeks these documents to clarify details concerning financial settlements and child custody arrangements, which are now relevant due to Sunjay’s passing. As a legal heir, Priya asserts her interest in matters relating to Sunjay’s estate and contends that these documents are essential for a pending succession case in the Delhi High Court.
Karisma’s divorce from Sunjay was contentious, marked by allegations of domestic abuse and substance issues. The couple ultimately divorced by mutual consent in 2016, during which Karisma withdrew her domestic violence claims, and the Supreme Court dismissed a dowry case she had filed against him.
Currently, the battle over Sunjay’s substantial estate includes both Karisma’s children, Samaira and Kiaan, and Priya. The children have initiated legal proceedings in the Delhi High Court, contesting the authenticity of a will presented by Priya, alleging it is forged and meant to exclude them from their father’s assets. Accusations have been exchanged between both parties during the court proceedings.
Sunjay Kapur served as chairman of Sona Comstar, a prominent auto parts manufacturer, and passed away in June while playing polo in London. His marriage to Karisma lasted from 2003 until 2016 and produced two children, Samaira and Kiaan. After their divorce, he married Priya in 2017, and their son, Azarias, was born following their marriage.