Maroc - POPDIARIES.COM - A La Une - 02/Oct 10:18

Isha Foundation Under Scrutiny: Police Probe Claims

A team of 150 police officers conducted an investigation at the Isha Foundation’s ashram in Thondamuthur, Coimbatore, on Tuesday, October 1, following a directive from the Madras High Court requesting a report on all criminal cases linked to the foundation. The operation, led by an assistant deputy superintendent of police and supported by three deputy superintendents, aimed to verify the safety and whereabouts of the foundation's residents and to inspect the premises, as reported by The Indian Express. The inquiry was initiated due to a habeas corpus petition filed by Dr. S. Kamaraj, a retired professor, who alleged that his two daughters, Geetha Kamaraj (42) and Latha Kamaraj (39), were being held against their will at the foundation. Kamaraj accused the organization of having brainwashed his daughters, compelling them into a monastic lifestyle and cutting off contact with their family. The court instructed the Coimbatore Rural Police to investigate and provide a report, along with details of any criminal cases associated with the Isha Foundation. “According to the court's order, the police, including the SP, have come to the Isha Yoga Center for a general inquiry. They are questioning residents and volunteers to understand their lifestyle and how they come to stay here,” the Isha Yoga Center stated. During the hearing, Justices S.M. Subramaniam and V. Sivagnanam raised concerns about apparent inconsistencies between Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s personal life and the principles he promotes to others. The court questioned why Vasudev, who arranged for his own daughter to marry and live a conventional life, was allegedly encouraging young women to abandon worldly pursuits, shave their heads, and live as hermits at his yoga centers. In an official statement, the foundation emphasized that it does not "instruct individuals to marry or adopt monastic life, as these decisions are personal choices," and that people are free to choose their own paths. READ MORE - Vasan Bala Expresses Discontent Over Karan Johar's Jigra Choice