Family Feud Intensifies Within Sona Group

The ongoing family dispute within the Kapur family, owners of the Sona Group valued at Rs 30,000 crore, escalated on Friday evening. The flagship company, Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd, issued a statement clarifying that Rani Kapur, mother of the late Sunjay Kapur, is not a shareholder and has not held such status since 2019. This announcement came after Rani Kapur claimed to be a majority shareholder and requested the postponement of an Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for that afternoon.

Rani Kapur’s Claims and Company Response

Earlier in the day, Rani Kapur had written to the board asserting her position as a majority shareholder. She alleged coercion into signing documents and questioned the appointment of Priya Sachdev Kapur, her daughter-in-law, as a representative of the family. In response, Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd filed a market declaration stating that Sunjay Kapur was identified as the sole beneficial owner in May 2019. Consequently, Rani Kapur has not been a shareholder since then.

Appointment of Priya Sachdev Kapur

The company also addressed the appointment of Priya Sachdev Kapur as a non-executive director. Her nomination was proposed, reviewed, and approved according to company procedures. The board emphasized that no documents had been signed by Rani Kapur since Sunjay Kapur’s passing.

Legal Advice and AGM Proceedings

Following an email from Rani Kapur requesting the AGM’s deferment, the board sought legal counsel “out of respect” for her. However, based on legal advice and her non-shareholder status, the company decided to proceed with the AGM as planned.

Allegations of Family Legacy Usurpation

Rani Kapur accused certain individuals of attempting to seize her family’s legacy during her period of mourning. She expressed concern over an AGM agenda item involving the appointment of directors representing the Kapur family, specifically naming Priya Sachdev Kapur as such a representative. Rani Kapur insisted she had not consented to any board appointments or representation.

Concerns Over Alleged Illegalities

In a letter filled with dramatic undertones reminiscent of Bollywood narratives, Rani Kapur cited information from “well-wishers” about “gross illegalities” within the company. She demanded that no decisions be made without her approval. Sunjay Kapur was a notable figure in the automotive industry and was previously married to Bollywood actress Karishma Kapoor before marrying model Priya Sachdev in 2017.