Pataudi Properties Face Uncertain Future, HC Lifts Stay on Acquisition

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has removed the 2015 stay on acquiring historical properties belonging to the Pataudi family, paving the way for a potential government takeover under the Enemy Property Act, of 1968. These properties, linked to Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan’s family, are worth ₹15,000 crore.

According to NDTV, these properties include notable landmarks like Flag Staff House, where Saif Ali Khan spent his childhood, Noor-Us-Sabah Palace, Dar-Us-Salam, and so on. Justice Vivek Agarwal, while lifting the stay, pointed out that a statutory remedy is available under the amended Enemy Property Act of 2017. The court directed all concerned parties to file representations within 30 days.

What is the Enemy Property Act?

The Enemy Property Act empowers the central government to seize properties owned by individuals who migrated to Pakistan after the partition of India.

In this case, the properties are linked to Hamidullah Khan, the last Nawab of Bhopal, who had three daughters. His eldest daughter, Abida Sultan, moved to Pakistan in 1950. The second daughter, Sajida Sultan, stayed in India, married Nawab Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, and became the rightful heir. Saif Ali Khan, as Sajida Sultan’s grandson, inherited a portion of these properties.

The government, however, claims the properties under the Enemy Property Act, citing Abida Sultan’s migration to Pakistan as the basis for the takeover.

Impact of Government Takeover

The Bhopal District Collector, Kaushalendra Vikram Singh, announced that the government will review 72 years of ownership records. Residents living on these properties may be classified as tenants under state leasing laws.

This decision has sparked anxiety among the 1.5 lakh residents living on the lands, many fearing eviction as surveys to verify ownership commence.

Legal experts suggest the process remains complex. “The stay has been lifted, but merging these properties under the Enemy Property Act isn’t straightforward. The Pataudi family still has the option to appeal,” said a resident, Sumer Khan.

Future Developments of Pataudi Properties

The lifting of the stay marks a significant step in the government’s push to acquire these properties, but the legal battle is far from over. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the Pataudi family and thousands of residents.