A fresh development has surfaced regarding the Pataudi family’s royal properties in Bhopal. The Madhya Pradesh High Court recently lifted a 2015 stay order that had halted government action on the family’s historical assets. These properties, reportedly worth an eye-popping ₹15,000 crore, could soon come under government control, sparking heated discussions.
The properties in question, tied to Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan’s lineage, include the iconic Flag Staff House, Noor-Us-Sabah Palace, and Dar-Us-Salam, among others. The court’s decision was influenced by the Enemy Property Act, 1968, which allows the government to take over properties owned by individuals who migrated to Pakistan after the partition of India. Saif, being the grandson of Sajida Sultan, inherited a part of these royal estates. But now, there’s a twist in the tale.
A Royal Lineage Caught in Legal Crossfire
To understand the story, it’s important to rewind a bit. The last Nawab of Bhopal, Hamidullah Khan, had three daughters. His eldest, Abida Sultan, moved to Pakistan in 1950, leaving her claim behind. Sajida Sultan, the second daughter, stayed in India and married Nawab Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi. This made Sajida the legal heir to Hamidullah Khan’s properties, and through her, Saif Ali Khan inherited his share.
But here’s where things get tricky. The government is focusing on Abida Sultan’s migration to Pakistan. Officials argue that her departure makes these properties fall under the Enemy Property Act. This law originally targeted properties left behind by individuals who moved to Pakistan or China during conflicts, labeling them as “enemy properties.” The act was amended in 2017 to close legal loopholes, making it even easier for the government to claim such assets.
Court’s Verdict and What Comes Next
Justice Vivek Agarwal of the Madhya Pradesh High Court made it clear that a statutory remedy exists under the amended Enemy Property Act. He directed all concerned parties to file their representations within 30 days. This ruling means the Pataudi family’s properties are now closer to being seized unless the family can successfully argue their case.
Saif Ali Khan, known for his Bollywood stardom and royal heritage, spent much of his childhood at Flag Staff House. These properties are not just valuable assets; they hold deep sentimental value for the Pataudi family. Noor-Us-Sabah Palace, for instance, has been a landmark in Bhopal for decades, symbolizing the city’s rich history.
Mixed Reactions to the Move
The news has stirred strong opinions. Many believe the government’s claim is justified, considering the provisions of the Enemy Property Act. Others feel it’s unfair to target Saif’s inheritance, as his grandmother, Sajida Sultan, never left India.
Some legal experts also point out that this could set a precedent for other royal families with ties to pre-partition India. “The Enemy Property Act is clear, but each case needs to be judged individually,” said a lawyer familiar with such disputes.
The Bigger Picture
This case isn’t just about Saif Ali Khan or his family’s wealth. It’s a broader debate about heritage, history, and legal interpretations of the partition’s aftermath. Whether the government’s move is fair or not, one thing is certain—the final decision will be watched closely by many.
For now, the clock is ticking for the Pataudi family to make their case. If they can’t provide convincing arguments within the given timeframe, these majestic properties could soon become part of India’s government-owned assets. What this means for Saif Ali Khan and the legacy of the Pataudi family remains to be seen.
