Investigation into Isha Foundation Following Allegations of Misconduct
On October 1, the Madras High Court ordered a thorough search of the Isha Foundation ashram in Thondamuthur, Coimbatore, prompting a large-scale police operation involving 150 officers. This action was taken in response to a petition alleging serious misconduct against the foundation, specifically regarding the treatment of two women reportedly being held against their will within the premises.
Background of the Case
The petition was filed by Dr. S. A. Kamaraj, a retired professor, who claimed that his daughters, Geeta Kamaraj (42) and Lata Kamaraj (39), were coerced into living a monastic life by the foundation. Kamaraj alleged that the organization utilized brainwashing techniques to sever his daughters’ ties with their family, compelling them to adopt an austere lifestyle far removed from their previous professional achievements.
Concerns Raised by the Court
The Court directed the Coimbatore Rural Police to conduct an investigation and report back with any relevant information regarding criminal cases associated with Isha Foundation. Justices SM Subramaniam and V. Sivagnanam expressed particular concern regarding the apparent contradictions in Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s lifestyle and the lives of those he advocates for. Questions were raised about why Vasudev, who arranged for his own daughter to marry and live a conventional life, would encourage other young women to renounce worldly pleasures and embrace a life of sadhus.
The Daughters’ Journey
Dr. Kamaraj highlighted his daughters’ educational background and achievements prior to their involvement with the foundation. Geeta, a postgraduate in Mechatronics from a prestigious UK university, had a successful career until her divorce in 2008. Following her separation, she began attending yoga classes at the Isha Foundation, which eventually led her sister Lata, a software engineer, to join her. The sisters’ experiences with the foundation transitioned from temporary participation to permanent residence at the ashram.
Allegations of Manipulation
According to the petition, the Isha Foundation not only provided sustenance and medication but allegedly did so in a manner that compromised the cognitive functions of the sisters. This manipulation purportedly contributed to their distancing from family ties and support systems, raising severe ethical questions about the foundation’s practices.
Criminal Incidents Associated with the Foundation
Adding to the allegations against the foundation, Kamaraj referenced a criminal case involving a medical professional associated with Isha Foundation, who was accused of molesting twelve young girls within a government school. This troubling incident has heightened scrutiny regarding the organization’s commitment to the well-being and safety of individuals under its influence.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation into the Isha Foundation exemplifies the complex intersection of spiritual organizations and the legal system. As this situation develops, it raises significant questions about personal autonomy, the dynamics of coercive influences, and the ethical responsibilities of spiritual leaders. Both the court’s inquiries and the petitioner’s claims highlight the necessity for transparency and accountability within organizations that advocate for lifestyle changes, especially when such changes may come at the expense of personal freedom and well-being.
