Delhi HIgh Court

Delhi HC: Family Dispute Over Liberty Footwear Business Moves to Arbitration

Updated
Jan 25, 2026 11:03 AM
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Let's dive into a family drama that just got a legal twist! On January 23, 2026, the Delhi High Court decided to send a big family dispute to arbitration. The case involves Pranav Gupta and a bunch of relatives, all tangled up in a fight over family property and business.

The Background: A Family Affair

Pranav Gupta filed a case to divide property and get some official declarations against Adeesh Gupta and others. The case revolves around the estate of Late Shri Dharam Pal Gupta, Pranav's grandfather. The estate was divided among family members through a will dated November 10, 1998. Everyone agreed that the will was legit, so no fights there.

“The lawyers state that there is no disagreement among the parties about the validity of the documents claimed to be the Will.”

Business Ties: Liberty Footwear Company

The late Dharam Pal Gupta was involved in a business called M/s Liberty Footwear Company, holding a 3% share. Several partnership agreements were made, with the latest dated September 8, 2003. Each agreement had a rule for resolving disputes through arbitration.

Heading to Arbitration: Court’s Decision

The court, led by Justice Mini Pushkarna, noted that everyone agreed to sort out their differences through arbitration. So, they appointed Justice Gita Mittal (Retd.) as the sole arbitrator. The parties must approach her within two weeks from the court’s decision.

Important Dates and Orders

  • April 13, 2018: An interim order was passed to keep things as they are with the properties.
  • January 23, 2026: The court removed the order to keep things as they are, provided the defendants deposit security worth Rs. 20 Crores with the arbitrator.

What’s Next?

The arbitration will cover all disputes, including those related to the will, partnership agreements, and more. The arbitrator will decide on any counter-claims and other objections.

“It is made clear that all the rights and arguments of the parties...are left open for decision by the learned Arbitrator.”

And there you have it! A family business saga heading to arbitration, hoping for a peaceful resolution.

Tags:
Family Law
Arbitration
Property Rights