Mumbai: A Potential Dispute Over Ratan Tata's Estate

Sources reveal a simmering dispute over the division of Ratan Tata's estate, with Mohini Mohan Dutta, a former Tata group employee and close associate of the late industrialist, expecting a significant settlement beyond the one-third share allocated to him. This expectation contrasts with the executors' estimates, raising concerns among Tata stakeholders.

Ratan Tata's Will: The Distribution of Assets

According to Ratan Tata's will, Dutta is entitled to one-third of the residual estate, including bank deposits over Rs 350 crore and proceeds from auctioning personal belongings. The remaining two-thirds are allocated to his half-sisters, Shireen Jejeebhoy and Deanna Jejeebhoy, who also serve as executors. The primary assets are bequeathed to his two foundations.

Concerns Among Stakeholders

Stakeholders are concerned about the valuation of Dutta's share, which he expects to be around Rs 650 crore, a figure that seems unlikely based on preliminary estimates. The will, yet to be probated, excludes mention of other family members, including half-brother Noel Tata, while brother Jimmy Tata is allocated Rs 50 crore.

The Bond Between Ratan Tata and Dutta

Dutta's relationship with Ratan Tata began in Jamshedpur, leading to Tata's support in his career and business ventures. Dutta, who considers himself as Tata's adopted son, has a long-standing association with the industrialist, dating back 60 years. However, the will clarifies that Ratan Tata never married nor adopted any children.