The Pataudi family’s extensive properties in Bhopal, valued at approximately Rs 15,000 crore and linked to Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, are now closer to government acquisition. The Madhya Pradesh High Court has lifted the stay imposed in 2015, potentially allowing the properties to be claimed under the Enemy Property Act, 1968.
The Properties in Question
Among the key properties under scrutiny are the Flag Staff House—Saif Ali Khan’s childhood home—Noor-Us-Sabah Palace, Dar-Us-Salam, Habibi Bungalow, Ahmedabad Palace, and Kohefiza Property. Justice Vivek Agarwal ruled that the amended Enemy Property Act, 2017, provides a statutory remedy and directed concerned parties to file representations within 30 days.
“If a representation is filed within 30 days from today, the appellate authority shall not advert to the aspect of limitation and shall deal with the appeal on its own merits,” the court stated.
The Legal Battle and Historical Context
The Enemy Property Act allows the Indian government to seize properties of individuals who migrated to Pakistan post-Partition. Bhopal’s last Nawab, Hamidullah Khan, had three daughters, including Abida Sultan, who migrated to Pakistan in 1950. His second daughter, Sajida Sultan, who remained in India, married Nawab Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and became the legal heir.
Saif Ali Khan, Sajida Sultan’s grandson, inherited a share of the properties. However, Abida Sultan’s migration has become the basis for the government’s claim over the estates. Though a 2019 ruling recognized Sajida Sultan as the legal heir, the recent court decision has reopened the dispute.
The Government’s Next Steps
Bhopal Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh has announced plans to scrutinize ownership records dating back 72 years. He indicated that individuals residing on these properties might be classified as tenants under state leasing laws.
The potential government takeover has caused anxiety among 1.5 lakh residents, many of whom fear eviction. The administration has begun surveys to assess ownership claims.
Residents’ Concerns and Legal Uncertainty
Sumer Khan, a local resident, remains hopeful. “The stay has been lifted, but merging these properties under the Enemy Property Act is complicated. The Pataudi family still has a chance to appeal.”
Others, like Chand Mian, express concerns. “We pay taxes, but there’s no registry for our homes. The Nawab’s leases should still stand.” Naseem Khan adds, “Many of these properties have been sold or leased over the years. This issue is far from straightforward.”
An Uncertain Future
The fate of these historical properties remains uncertain. With legal options still available to the Pataudi family, the coming months will determine whether the government successfully takes control or if the family retains its ancestral estate. The residents of these properties, meanwhile, await clarity on their future.
(With inputs from agencies)
