SC names ex-CJI DY Chandrachud as mediator in Kapur family trust battle | How the process works

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has appointed former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud as mediator to resolve the ongoing dispute within the Kapur family over control and validity of the alleged RK Family Trust linked to the Sona Group estate.

A Bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and Ujjal Bhuyan passed the order after all parties agreed to explore the possibility of an amicable settlement through mediation. The court observed that the matter is essentially a family dispute and should ideally be resolved within the family framework rather than prolonged litigation.

During the hearing, the Bench emphasised that the dispute should not be turned into a matter of public discussion. It orally remarked that such issues should remain private and not become a “source of entertainment”, urging all parties to exercise restraint in public statements and social media posts.

The Supreme Court also clarified that the mediation process will focus strictly on resolving disputes among family members. It said the objective is to bring the matter to a peaceful conclusion, with all sides expected to approach the process with an open mind.

The case relates to allegations raised by Rani Kapur regarding the creation of the RK Family Trust, which she claims was formed without her knowledge or consent. She has challenged the trust’s legality and alleged that assets belonging to her late husband were transferred into it under questionable circumstances.

According to her claims, she is the sole beneficiary of her late husband’s estate, and she has alleged that the restructuring of assets occurred without her informed approval following family developments.

The court has said it will await a preliminary report from the mediator before taking further steps in the case and has posted the matter for hearing in August.

In a parallel development, the Delhi High Court has already passed interim directions to preserve key assets linked to the estate. It has restrained any sale, transfer, or alteration of shareholding structures and other financial holdings until the dispute is finally adjudicated.

With DY Chandrachud now appointed as mediator, the Supreme Court has effectively shifted the matter towards structured settlement discussions, aiming to reduce litigation and encourage a negotiated resolution between the disputing family members.
(With IANS inputs)