In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court restrains police in Isha Foundation case, offering significant relief to the organization led by spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev. The apex court issued a stay on a Madras High Court order that had mandated a police investigation into allegations against the foundation, including claims of brainwashing and illegal captivity. The case, which has garnered national attention, now falls under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, with a status report from the Tamil Nadu police expected soon. The next hearing is scheduled for October 18.
Background of the Case
The case against the Isha Foundation stems from allegations made by Dr. S. Kamaraj, a retired professor who accused the foundation of holding his two daughters, Geetha (42) and Latha Kamaraj (39), against their will. According to Dr. Kamaraj, the organization had indoctrinated the women, forcing them into a monastic lifestyle and restricting their contact with the outside world. His petition to the Madras High Court led to the court’s initial decision to order an investigation into the Isha Yoga Centre and any potential criminal activities linked to the organization.
However, in a recent hearing before the Supreme Court, both women appeared voluntarily and firmly denied the allegations, stating that they were living at the Isha Yoga Centre of their own accord. This development played a pivotal role in the Supreme Court’s decision to step in and restrain the police.
Supreme Court’s Intervention
The Supreme Court restrains police in Isha Foundation case, emphasizing the importance of protecting spiritual organizations from unnecessary external interference. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, presiding over the three-judge bench that includes Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, remarked, “You can’t let the Army or the police into an institution like this,” underlining the court’s concern for maintaining the sanctity and independence of such institutions.
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the Isha Foundation, argued that the organization had an impeccable record and that the claims against it were unfounded. He pointed out that the two women, who were allegedly being held captive, had appeared before the Madras High Court and confirmed their voluntary stay at the ashram. Furthermore, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, supported the argument that the Madras High Court should have been more cautious before ordering a police probe into the foundation.
Allegations of Brainwashing and Restriction
The allegations against the Isha Foundation are primarily centered around claims of brainwashing and restricting individuals from leaving the ashram. Dr. Kamaraj has accused the organization of converting individuals into monks and severely limiting their communication with their families. This has led to broader questions about the foundation’s practices, particularly regarding its promotion of a monastic lifestyle for women.
Critics have pointed out the apparent contradiction between Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s promotion of this lifestyle and the choices he made for his own daughter, who is married and leads a conventional life. During a court session, Justice Sivagnanam raised this issue, questioning why Sadhguru advocates for young women to live as monks while ensuring his daughter follows a different path.
Women Reaffirm Voluntary Stay
In a significant development, one of Dr. Kamaraj’s daughters appeared online before the Supreme Court bench, reiterating her voluntary decision to remain at the Isha Yoga Centre. “We are here of our own will. We have also informed the honorable judge that we have been facing harassment from our father for the past eight years,” she stated. Following this, the Supreme Court decided to meet both women in private, where they reaffirmed their willingness to stay at the ashram.
Chief Justice Chandrachud, after hearing their statements, concluded that the police’s actions had created an undue presence at the ashram. The court then directed the Tamil Nadu police to refrain from any further actions related to the High Court’s initial order until the next hearing in October.
Isha Foundation’s Defense
In response to the controversy, the Isha Foundation has consistently denied all accusations of brainwashing and captivity. The foundation’s spokesperson released a statement emphasizing that participation in the ashram’s programs, including adopting a monastic lifestyle, is entirely voluntary. “Isha Foundation was established by Sadhguru to promote yoga and spirituality. We believe that individuals have the freedom and wisdom to choose their own paths,” the statement read.
The foundation also stressed that both women had publicly affirmed their voluntary presence at the ashram, rejecting any claims that they were being held against their will.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court restrains police in Isha Foundation case, marking a critical moment in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the organization. As the case progresses, the focus will remain on whether the Isha Foundation’s practices are consistent with individual rights and freedoms. The court’s next session, set for October 18, is expected to provide further clarity on the allegations and the foundation’s future.
For now, the Supreme Court restrains police in Isha Foundation case, offering temporary relief to the spiritual organization and its leader, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, while the legal process continues to unfold.
Stay connected to know more on arcnews.online for global news like Supreme Court Restrains Police In Isha Foundation Case. For videos updates visit our YouTube. Do subscribe to Arcnews to get latest updates directly in your mail box.
Have A Great Day.
