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Supreme Court Stays Madras High Court Order Against Isha Foundation, Seeks Status Report
The Supreme Court on Thursday paused the investigation directed by the Madras High Court against the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, which is run by spiritual leader Sadhguru. The top court restrained Tamil Nadu police from conducting any further enquiry into the allegations raised against the ashram and transferred the case to itself for further proceedings.
Supreme Court Intervenes, Seeks Status Report
The case, which involves a habeas corpus petition filed by a father alleging that his two daughters were being held against their will at the Isha Yoga Centre, will now be heard by the Supreme Court. The bench, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, has asked Tamil Nadu police to submit a status report on the matter. The next hearing is scheduled for October 18.
High Court’s Order and Allegations
The Madras High Court had earlier directed the Coimbatore police to investigate allegations that the two women, aged 42 and 39, were being “brainwashed” and held captive at the ashram. Despite the daughters appearing before the High Court and confirming that they were residing there voluntarily, the court raised concerns over additional allegations, including a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) case against a doctor associated with the institution.
Following the High Court’s order, a team of around 150 police officers, along with health officers and child welfare committee members, visited the Isha Yoga Centre to conduct an investigation. This action led Isha Foundation to approach the Supreme Court, seeking relief from the High Court’s directive.
Supreme Court’s Observations and Virtual Interaction
During the Supreme Court hearing, Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Isha Foundation, argued that since the two women had already stated their willingness to stay at the ashram, the habeas corpus petition’s purpose was fulfilled. He emphasized that the High Court should not have issued additional directives.
Chief Justice Chandrachud expressed concerns over the scale of police involvement, remarking, “You cannot let an army of police into an establishment like this.” Following a virtual interaction with the two women, who reiterated that they were staying at the ashram willingly, the Supreme Court recorded their statements, confirming that they were not under any coercion and were free to travel.
Final Decision and Next Steps
The Supreme Court has now taken over the case and directed Tamil Nadu police to submit a detailed status report. The statement made by the two women has been documented, noting that they have been residing at the ashram voluntarily, have participated in various activities, and their parents have visited them multiple times.
The case will be reviewed further on October 18, with the Supreme Court set to assess the findings of the police report and make a final determination on the matter.
