Saif Ali Khan’s ₹15,000 cr ancestral property being declared “enemy property

What’s the situation?

• Madhya Pradesh High Court Action: On July 4, 2025, the High Court set aside a 2000 trial‑court ruling that had recognized Saif, Sharmila Tagore, Soha, and Saba Ali Khan as legitimate heirs. It ordered a fresh trial in the district court, to be completed within a year
• The court also rejected Saif’s plea against the Centre’s 2014 declaration of these properties as “enemy property” under the Enemy Property Act
• A 30‑day deadline was given to appeal to the appellate tribunal, but no appeal was filed, clearing the way for government acquisition

Why is it classified as enemy property?

• The Enemy Property Act (1968) allows the government to seize properties left behind by people who moved to enemy countries (Pakistan/China).
• The trigger: Abida Sultan, Saif’s great‑aunt and daughter of Nawab Hamidullah Khan, emigrated to Pakistan after Partition, forfeiting rights
• Assets affected include historic estates: Flag Staff House (Saif’s childhood home), Noor‑Us‑Saba Palace, Dar‑Us‑Salam, Bungalow of Habibi, Ahmedabad Palace, and Kohefiza Property

What’s next?

1. Retrial underway in district court on succession disputes – expected conclusion within a year
2. Since no appeal was lodged, the Bhopal district administration is likely to initiate property takeover soon
3. The Pataudi family could still pursue relief via a division bench of the High Court or represent to the appellate tribunal, though the original window has closed

Impact & wider implications

• This ruling is a major legal setback for Saif Ali Khan, nullifying his claim over ₹15,000 Cr worth of royal properties.
• It reopens complex legal debates touching on Partition-era succession, royal entitlements, Muslim Personal Law, and state powers under the Enemy Property Act
• Sets a precedent affecting other pre‑Partition property claims where ancestors migrated.