The Delhi High Court on Tuesday directed Priya S Kapur, wife of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur, and her sister-in-law Mandhira Kapur Smith to exercise restraint in making statements against each other amid a defamation dispute.
Justice Mini Pushkarna passed the order while hearing a civil suit filed by Priya Kapur alleging a “continuous, malicious, and defamatory campaign” by Mandhira Kapur Smith through podcasts, interviews, social media posts, and public statements.
“Both parties are directed to exercise restraint in making statements on each other, directly or indirectly,” the court ordered.
The court also issued summons to Mandhira Kapur Smith and podcast host Pooja Chaudhri and listed the matter for hearing in May.
Priya Kapur, in her suit, alleged that within days of Sunjay Kapur’s demise, her sister-in-law “embarked upon a systematic and organised course of conduct” to malign and socially discredit her.
According to the plaint, the impugned statements:
- falsely imputed dishonesty and moral impropriety,
- alleged professional incompetence,
- accused her of concealment of assets, and
- suggested illegitimate assumption of corporate control.
The suit claimed that the statements were deliberately published and amplified through the podcast InControversial with Pooja Chaudhri, causing “grave and continuing injury” to her reputation, dignity, privacy, and mental peace.
Priya Kapur sought:
- a permanent injunction restraining the defendants from publishing any content against her,
- removal and takedown of all allegedly defamatory material,
- an unconditional public apology and retraction, and
- damages of ₹20 crore.
She has also initiated criminal defamation proceedings against Mandhira Kapur Smith before a trial court.
Counsel appearing for Mandhira Kapur Smith told the court that there was a “concerted media vilification campaign” against her.
Sunjay Kapur passed away on June 12 last year after collapsing during a polo match in England.
