Summary: The Delhi High Court has reversed an earlier decision, approving the will made by Praveen Malhotra in favor of Shalini Asha Chopra. The court found no evidence of pressure or suspicious circumstances around the will.
Vikram Chopra, who disagreed with the earlier decision, questioned the approval of a will made by Praveen Malhotra, who left his belongings to Shalini Asha Chopra. The first decision raised doubts about the will’s validity, mentioning suspicious situations.
Praveen Malhotra had a rocky relationship with his family. After his wife died in 1989, Praveen had legal troubles with his parents and sister over accusations related to dowry. These family issues were clear when his father publicly cut ties with him shortly before passing away.
The will, dated July 27, 1994, was signed and officially recorded in front of witnesses. It left Praveen’s properties to Shalini Asha Chopra, a family friend. The court noted that Praveen had a long-standing relationship with the Chopra family, who supported him during tough times.
"The signing of the will was a deliberate choice by Praveen," said the court.
Questions were raised about Praveen’s mental health because of a head injury and supposed drinking problems. However, medical reports, including a post-mortem and a report from AIIMS, showed no signs of long-term alcohol use or mental problems when the will was signed.
The court, led by Justice Anil Kshetrapal and Justice Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar, found that the will was properly signed. The judges highlighted that the will matched Praveen's wishes and dismissed claims of pressure.
"The challengers couldn't prove any real suspicious situation," the judges concluded.
The court overturned the previous decision, approving the will. This decision highlights the need for clear proof when questioning a will's validity.
