Man accuses mother of assault in battle for ₹11,000 crore tobacco empire

Samir Modi, the executive director of Godfrey Phillips, has made serious accusations against his own mother in the ongoing family dispute over late KK Modi’s ₹11,000-crore tobacco empire.

The dispute, which centers around the late KK Modi's vast inheritance, has escalated into a legal battle with far-reaching implications.

On a fateful Thursday, Samir Modi attempted to attend a scheduled board meeting at Godfrey Phillips' Jasola office in Delhi. 

However, he was met with resistance. Bina Modi's personal security officer (PSO) and several directors physically prevented him from entering the meeting. Undeterred, Samir insisted on his right to participate.

The confrontation turned violent. Samir sustained a grievous injury—a broken index finger. Despite the pain, he persevered and attended the board meeting before seeking medical attention. 

His complaint, filed at the Sarita Vihar police station, outlines the severity of the injury. The medical prognosis is grim: his right-hand index finger may never fully regain functionality.

Samir Modi suspects that the attack was premeditated. His mother's alleged intention? To hinder his participation in crucial board meetings and exert pressure on him to sell his stake in Godfrey Phillips. 

Although Bina Modi had previously offered to buy his shares through a mediator, Samir now stands firm—refusing to exit the company.

The family feud extends beyond personal animosity. It revolves around significant shareholdings in Godfrey Phillips and other group companies. Samir also accuses his mother of violating the terms stipulated in a trust deed executed by his late father, KK Modi. 

The legal battle is currently before the Supreme Court, where the fate of billions hangs in the balance.

Beyond Godfrey Phillips, Samir wears multiple hats. As a director of the company, he faces the challenge of fulfilling his duties despite the assault. 

Additionally, he heads consumer businesses such as Colorbar Cosmetics, 24/7 Retail, and the direct selling platform Modicare. His commitment to these roles remains unwavering, even in the face of adversity.

A spokesperson for Godfrey Phillips vehemently denies the allegations. They characterize Samir's claims as "entirely false and atrocious." 

The incident, they assert, was captured on the company's in-house CCTV cameras, which will shed light on the events leading up to the assault.

As the legal battle unfolds, the Modi family saga continues to captivate the business world. The struggle for control, wealth, and legacy plays out against the backdrop of a multi-billion-rupee empire—a saga where familial bonds fray, and corporate interests collide.