Get a mediator and settle the family feud, HC tells Mafatlals

MUMBAI: Suggesting the quarrel-stricken Mafatlal family to opt for an amicable settlement, the Bombay High Court on Tuesday said it would appoint an independent person as a mediator between the disputing parties to end the feud.

Industrialist Atulya and his estranged wife Sheetal are embroiled in a matrimonial dispute wherein both sides including his daughter Marushka have filed complaints against each other.

A division bench of Justices V M Kanade and A M Thipsay was hearing two petitions - one filed by Marushka seeking for the FIR lodged by Sheetal against her for harassment to be quashed, and another filed by a private investments company, owned by Atulya, seeking a CID inquiry against the socialite for theft of a painting worth Rs 2-crore.

"All these are disputes among family members which should be tried and settled amicably instead of dragging each other to court. Go to a mediator and sit together and try sorting it out," Justice Kanade said.

Advocate Abad Ponda appearing for Sheetal told the court that she was ready for an out of court settlement but for this, her husband Atulya (who is presently in London undergoing treatment for cancer) should also be present.

While Sheetal has lodged a harassment case against Marushka and Atulya's sister Kunti Shah and mother Madhuri, the scion has lodged a complaint against Sheetal alleging theft of antiques from the Mafatlal bungalow.

The court today directed both the sides to submit a list of independent person they would like to be appointed as mediators. The bench would then either appoint someone from the list or chose someone on its own.

The matter will be heard next on October 13.