New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday disposed of a habeas corpus petition filed by S. Kamaraj, a former professor at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in Coimbatore, who alleged that his two daughters were being held captive and brainwashed at the Isha Yoga Centre.
The court considered statements from the daughters, aged 39 and 42, who confirmed that they are adults living voluntarily at the ashram and are free to leave at any time. In its ruling, the Supreme Court stated that no further directions were necessary regarding the habeas corpus petition and decided to close the case.
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The court highlighted the importance of having an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) when women and minor children are involved. Chief Justice of India (CJI) noted, "The idea is not to malign an organisation, but there are essential requirements that must be complied with. Mr. Rohatgi, you must convey to the institution that these obligations need to be met." He further stated that the proceedings should not be used to defame anyone or any institution, expressing concern about an intervention by the OBC Mahasabha, which he felt was undermining the intended purpose of the proceedings.
In response to recent questions raised by a Madras High Court bench regarding Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev's encouragement for young women to adopt spirituality, monkhood while he had arranged his own daughter's marriage, the Isha Foundation issued a statement.
The foundation affirmed, "Isha Foundation was founded by Sadhguru to impart yoga and spirituality to people. We believe that adult individuals have the freedom and wisdom to choose their paths. We do not dictate whether people should marry or take up monkhood, as these are individual choices. The Isha Yoga Centre is home to thousands who are not monks, alongside a few who have embraced Brahmacharya or monkhood."
The Supreme Court clarified that the closure of these proceedings would not affect any regulatory compliance the Isha Yoga Centre is required to meet.
Published: 18 Oct 2024, 12:12 pm IST
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