Sunjay Kapoor Estate Case: Lawyers Clash in Delhi High Court

NEW DELHI: The legal battle over the late industrialist Sunjay Kapur's estate, estimated at around Rs 30,000 crore, took an intense turn in the Delhi High Court. Senior advocates Mahesh Jethmalani and Rajiv Nayar, representing their respective clients, got into a heated exchange that has since gone viral on social media.

The case centers on claims over inheritance and succession rights to the vast fortune of Sunjay Kapur, who died during a polo match in the UK in June. Jethmalani is representing actor Karisma Kapoor, Sunjay Kapur’s ex-wife, while Nayar is appearing for Priya Sachdev Kapur, the industrialist's wife of eight years at the time of his death.

A 21-second video of the courtroom exchange has gained significant attention. The clip begins with Jethmalani saying, “Milord, just because…” before being cut off by Nayar, who himself had apparently been interrupted by the former. Nayar retorts, “Please don't interrupt me. I'm not used to interruption.” Jethmalani, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, hits back: “You should get a taste of your own medicine then. And don't shout at me...please don't shout at me. You interrupted me.”

Jethmalani further emphasizes, “Do not shout at me. Have some courtesy. If you shout, you'll get paid back in coin. I'm not a push over,” as Nayar tries to respond. The tension in the courtroom was palpable, reflecting the high stakes of the case.

Sunjay Kapur and Karisma Kapoor were married from 2003 to 2016 and have a son and a daughter. The industrialist had a previous four-year marriage with fashion designer Nandita Mahtani, which ended in 2000. The legal battle over Kapur's estate has been a closely watched affair, with both sides presenting their arguments in the Delhi High Court.

The case has not only highlighted the financial implications but also the personal and emotional aspects involved. The video of the exchange has sparked discussions on social media, with many weighing in on the behavior of the senior advocates in the courtroom. The Delhi High Court has scheduled further hearings, and the legal battle is expected to continue as both sides fight for their claims over the estate.

The outcome of this case could set important precedents in inheritance and succession laws in India, making it a significant legal milestone.