Karisma Kapoor’s Kids’ Lawyer Dubs Priya Sachdev “Cinderella’s Stepmother” in Ongoing Rs 30,000-Crore Sunjay Kapur Estate Dispute
Allegations of forgery and conspiracy have emerged in the inheritance dispute over the substantial Rs 30,000-crore estate of the late industrialist Sunjay Kapur. During a hearing at the Delhi High Court, Senior Advocate Mahesh Jethmalani claimed that a will presented by Kapur’s widow, Priya Sachdev Kapur, was fabricated to exclude his two children, Samaira and Kiaan Kapur, from inheriting their father’s wealth. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting issues of trust and legitimacy in estate management.
Allegations of Forgery and Conspiracy
The legal battle intensified as Jethmalani, representing Samaira and Kiaan, argued that Sunjay Kapur had no involvement in the creation of the will. He presented digital evidence indicating that Kapur was on vacation with his son when the will was allegedly altered. According to Jethmalani, the will was modified on March 17, 2025, at a time when Kapur was out of town, raising serious questions about its authenticity. He emphasized that the absence of Kapur’s digital footprints during this period suggests a conspiracy involving Priya Kapur and others. Jethmalani described the situation as a serious crime under Section 467 of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses forgery of a will and carries severe penalties.
At the heart of the dispute is a will dated March 21, 2025, which purportedly leaves Kapur’s entire estate to Priya Sachdev Kapur. The children have contested this document, labeling it a product of a “criminal conspiracy” orchestrated by Priya and three accomplices. The courtroom drama unfolded as Jethmalani accused Priya of deliberately isolating Samaira and Kiaan from their inheritance while consolidating power and wealth for herself.
The ‘Cinderella Stepmother’ Allegation
Jethmalani’s courtroom rhetoric included a striking metaphor, likening Priya Kapur to “Cinderella’s evil stepmother.” He argued that her actions were designed to marginalize Samaira and Kiaan, as well as their grandmother, Rani Kapur. The lawyer highlighted Priya’s insistence on confidentiality agreements among family members, questioning the necessity of such measures if the will were legitimate. He pointed out that the executor of the will, Shradha Suri Marwah, appeared to be acting under Priya’s influence rather than independently managing the estate.
The case took a further twist when Jethmalani revealed that the two witnesses to the will had been granted positions in companies associated with the estate after the will’s execution. This connection raised suspicions about the legitimacy of the document. Justice Jyoti Singh, presiding over the case, noted that the original will and asset list submitted by Priya lacked a signature, prompting her to resubmit a signed version along with an affidavit. The court is set to continue hearing arguments on October 13.
A Will Without Signature
The absence of a signature on the asset list has become a focal point in the proceedings. Justice Singh’s directive for Priya to provide a verified list of assets underscores the court’s scrutiny of the will’s validity. Meanwhile, Priya’s legal counsel, Rajiv Nayar, has firmly denied the allegations, asserting that the will was executed properly before Sunjay Kapur’s death. He contended that the children’s lawsuit lacks merit and that the will’s authenticity is supported by contemporaneous evidence.
The origins of the dispute trace back to June 12, 2025, when Sunjay Kapur passed away unexpectedly during a polo match in England. Initially, Priya claimed that all assets were held in a family trust and that no will existed. It was only later that she presented the contested document, which the children now assert is forged. Jethmalani argued that the alleged forgery represents a conspiracy aimed at depriving Sunjay’s elderly mother and children of their rightful inheritance.
Implications for Digital Inheritance
This legal battle not only highlights personal family dynamics but also raises broader questions about the future of inheritance in India, particularly regarding digitally executed wills and trust structures. The case could set important precedents concerning the authentication of digital documents and the legal implications of electronic signatures. As the High Court has frozen any attempts to create third-party rights over the estate, the outcome of this case may influence how wealth is managed and transferred in the digital age.
The ongoing proceedings have captivated both legal and business communities, serving as a cautionary tale about the complexities of modern wealth management. As one legal expert noted, this case transcends mere financial disputes, delving into themes of power, betrayal, and the challenges posed by digital inheritance. The court’s next steps will be closely watched as the saga unfolds.
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