New Delhi, October 18, 2024 – The Supreme Court of India has closed proceedings in a case of alleged illegal confinement involving two women at Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s Isha Foundation. The court dismissed the habeas corpus petition after the women testified that they were living voluntarily at the foundation’s ashram without any coercion.
A bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud criticized the Madras High Court’s earlier decision to order a police investigation, calling it an attempt to “malign people and institutions.” The case was brought forward by the parents of the two women, aged 39 and 42, who alleged that their daughters were being “brainwashed” and held against their will at the Isha Foundation in Coimbatore.
The women had joined the foundation’s ashram voluntarily when they were 24 and 27 years old, according to senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, who represented Isha Foundation. He also highlighted that the women regularly participated in public events, including a 10 km marathon, and maintained contact with their parents.
After a virtual interaction with the women, the Chief Justice stated, “Both individuals have clearly expressed their voluntary stay at the Isha Foundation. No further direction is needed in this habeas corpus case.” The court noted that the case should have been dropped after the women’s statements, asserting their freedom to stay or leave the ashram.
The Tamil Nadu Police had raised broader concerns about the Isha Foundation, citing six missing persons cases over the past 15 years. Of those cases, five had been closed, with one still under investigation. The Supreme Court clarified that its ruling only applied to the habeas corpus petition and did not interfere with ongoing police inquiries.
In closing, Chief Justice Chandrachud stressed the importance of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) when women or minors are involved and advised that Isha Foundation ensure compliance with these regulations. The state was also urged to collaborate with the foundation to ensure all necessary measures are followed.
The ruling marks the end of a legal battle centered on personal freedom and the Isha Foundation’s practices, while broader concerns about the organization remain under investigation.
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