Govt. May Takeover Pataudi Family’s Rs. 15,000 Crore Property
Saif Ali Khan's family may lose ownership of valuable historical properties worth Rs.15,000 crores to the government due to a legal dispute over "enemy property" rights.
Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan recently made headlines after a man broke into his Bandra penthouse and stabbed him multiple times. Now, Saif is in the news for a completely different reason: his family may lose control of several valuable properties worth ?15,000 crores.
These properties include Flag Staff House (where Saif grew up), Noor-Us-Sabah Palace, Dar-Us-Salam, Ahmedabad Palace, and Kohefiza Property. But why is the government considering taking over these lands?
Why Are These Properties at Risk?
The government has labeled these properties as “enemy property.” After the 1947 partition, some families moved to Pakistan, leaving behind their properties. The Indian government took control of these lands and declared them “enemy property.”
Saif Ali Khan’s Family Connection
The properties in question belong to Saif’s family through his grandmother’s side, the Bhopal royal family. The last ruler of Bhopal, Nawab Hamidullah Khan, had two daughters:
- Abida Sultan, who moved to Pakistan after the partition.
- Sajida Sultan, who stayed in India and became the legal heir.
When Abida Sultan moved to Pakistan, the Indian government took control of her properties, calling them “enemy property.” Saif’s family argues that the properties rightfully belong to them.
What’s Happening in Court?
1. 2005: The court issued a stay order preventing the government from taking control during the legal battle between the families.
2. 2015: The Madhya Pradesh High Court lifted the stay order, allowing the government to proceed.
3. 2024: In December, the court gave Saif’s family 30 days to file an appeal. If they don’t, the government can take control.
What Happens If the Government Takes Control?
If the government takes over, Saif’s family could lose ownership of these properties. The properties at risk are in Bhopal, but Saif’s other properties, like his Pataudi house, are safe.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
Around 1.5 lakh people could be affected. Many of these properties have been sold or leased, and current residents and businesses might face eviction or legal battles.
Possible Positive Outcomes
If the government controls the properties, they may convert them into museums, public spaces, or infrastructure projects like schools and hospitals, which could benefit the local population. It may also boost tourism and the economy in Bhopal.
The case is still ongoing, and the final outcome will depend on the court’s decision in the coming months.
