Background of the Case: Allegations by Geetha and Latha’s Father
The case began when Kamaraj, a retired professor and father of the two women, filed a Habeas Corpus Petition in the Madras High Court. He alleged that his daughters were being forcibly detained at the Isha Foundation. Kamaraj further claimed that his younger daughter, Latha (now known as Maa Maayu), was threatening him by fasting until death to force him to stop his activities against the Sadhguru Isha Ashram.
The Madras High Court responded to the petition with an interim order on September 30, directing the Coimbatore rural police to investigate the matter and file a status report.
Tamil Nadu Police Investigation and Report Findings
A police team led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Shristi Singh conducted the investigation at the ashram. The findings were submitted in a detailed report to the Supreme Court, which revealed the following:
- Voluntary Stay at the Ashram
- Both Geetha (Maa Mathi) and Latha (Maa Maayu) confirmed that they chose the monastic lifestyle on their own and were not under any coercion.
- The women stated they were in good physical and mental health and had willingly embraced the spiritual path at Isha.
- Family Relations and Recent Visits
- Geetha and Latha clarified that they had no communication issues with their parents. They had visited their parents on June 7, 2024, to celebrate their anniversary.
- CCTV footage and handwritten submissions provided by the police further confirmed these meetings.
- Statements from Ashram Residents and Staff
- The police report included interviews with 30 Brahmacharis (monks), along with 80 workers, 152 staff members, 44 residents, and 42 visitors. All interviewed individuals stated they were staying at the ashram by choice.
- Ashram Lifestyle
- The report highlighted that the residents follow a healthy lifestyle, with Maa Maayu even participating in a 10 km marathon Sadhguru Isha Ashram.
Supreme Court’s Involvement: Case Transferred from Madras High Court
The case took a significant turn when the Supreme Court, led by a bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, intervened on October 3. The court ordered the Tamil Nadu police to stop further investigation and transferred the case from the Madras High Court to the Supreme Court.
The next hearing in the Supreme Court is schedule for October 18, where the Tamil Nadu police will present the final status report.
Additional Findings from the Police Investigation
The police report also uncovered other observations at the Isha Foundation:
- Medical Irregularities: Outdated medical equipment was found in the Isha Clinic.
- Sexual Harassment Allegation: A doctor registered in Telangana faced a sexual harassment complaint during an outreach program.
- Missing Internal Complaints Committee (ICC): Despite having a large number of volunteers, the ashram lacked an ICC to handle grievances.
- Crematorium Controversy: Local farmers raised objections to the crematorium set up inside the ashram premises.
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Conclusion
Sadhguru Isha Ashram, The Tamil Nadu police investigation has put to rest the allegations of illegal detention at the Isha Foundation. Both Geetha and Latha, now known as Maa Mathi and Maa Maayu, express that they are living at the ashram voluntarily and are committ to their monastic path. With CCTV footage and statements from residents supporting their claims, the Supreme Court will now determine the next steps during the upcoming hearing on October 18.
