SC hopeful of amicable resolution in Sunjay Kapur estate and trust dispute

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed optimism that the dispute between late industrialist Sunjay Kapur's mother, Rani Kapur, his wife Priya Kapur and other family members over the RK Family Trust and the family estate could be resolved amicably through mediation.

Taking note of a preliminary mediation report submitted by former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, a bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan told counsel for the parties that it was hopeful of a settlement.

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"We are very sure that you are all close to a happy resolution. We would like to once again remind the parties to approach the mediator with an open mind and heart and ensure they do not get dragged into long-drawn litigation. Let the mediation proceed. We shall wait for one more report in November," the bench said.

The court noted that six mediation sessions had been held so far and appreciated the cooperation shown by all sides.

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"We are happy to note that the mediation is proceeding quite satisfactorily and the parties are cooperating," Justice Pardiwala said, referring to the mediator's "positive" report that the parties had agreed to continue discussions to explore a comprehensive settlement.

The apex court also directed that the mediator's fee be paid from the family trust, saying there should be no further dispute on the issue. The direction came after Rani Kapur submitted that she did not have the funds to pay Justice Chandrachud's fee.