Sadhguru’s Isha Foundation is once again under the spotlight, this time facing fresh allegations involving the sexual assault of minors. On October 19, 2024, advocate S. Vanchinathan filed a formal complaint at the Anna Nagar Police Station in Madurai, calling for legal action against the Foundation, its founder Jaggi Vasudev (Sadhguru), and others implicated in these serious accusations. These new claims come shortly after parents in Hyderabad spoke out publicly about the alleged assault of their children at the Coimbatore-based institution. This latest development adds to the already complex legal landscape surrounding the Foundation, raising further questions about its internal governance.
Fresh Allegations: Sexual Assault of Minors at Isha Foundation
The new complaint against Isha Foundation comes in the wake of a press conference in Hyderabad, where several parents spoke about their children allegedly being sexually assaulted while at the Coimbatore ashram. Advocate S. Vanchinathan, in filing his complaint, accused the Foundation of not taking appropriate action against the alleged perpetrators. He pointed out that, under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, anyone aware of such assaults is legally obligated to report them to the police. Failing to do so constitutes a crime under the Act.
“I will move the court if no action is taken,” Vanchinathan told mediapersons, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations. He also called for the Madras High Court to take suo motu cognizance of the case, citing the police report previously submitted to the Supreme Court that outlined numerous complaints against the Foundation.
Ongoing Investigations: The Foundation’s Troubled History
These new claims add fuel to an already smoldering fire of controversy surrounding the Isha Foundation. Just weeks earlier, the Tamil Nadu police submitted a report to the Supreme Court detailing a range of allegations, including missing persons, unexplained deaths, sexual harassment, and land encroachment. Although the Supreme Court closed a habeas corpus petition after two women alleged to be held captive at the ashram confirmed they were there of their own free will, the police investigation uncovered deeper, unresolved issues.
Sexual Assault and POCSO Act Violations
Among the earlier revelations was a case under the POCSO Act involving a doctor employed by Isha Outreach, who was accused of child sexual abuse. That case remains under investigation. The new accusations by parents and the advocate’s complaint intensify the scrutiny surrounding the Foundation’s handling of such grave matters.
“Under the POCSO Act, it’s not just the crime of sexual assault that is punishable. Failing to report it is equally serious,” Vanchinathan stated. His concern underscores the importance of accountability, not just for the alleged offenders but also for those who might have turned a blind eye.
Parents Speak Out
The parents who participated in the press meet in Hyderabad expressed their frustration and distress over the lack of action taken by the Foundation. One mother, speaking through tears, shared, “We trusted the institution with our children, but instead of protecting them, we feel they were failed. We demand justice.” This emotional appeal has intensified the focus on the safety of minors at the Foundation, with growing public support for a full investigation.
Isha Foundation’s Response: Defending Its Practices
The Isha Foundation, which has repeatedly come under fire for its internal operations, has not yet commented on the latest allegations. In its earlier statements, the Foundation strongly denied any wrongdoing, particularly in relation to the missing persons and sexual harassment claims. Following the Tamil Nadu police report, the Foundation had claimed full compliance with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act and expressed willingness to cooperate with ongoing investigations.
Regarding earlier cases, the Foundation’s spokesperson had said, “Isha Foundation is a safe place for all seekers from around the world…We are committed to addressing the areas that need improvement and will continue working with authorities to ensure full compliance.”
However, the new sexual assault allegations place even more pressure on the Foundation to be transparent about its internal practices and protective measures.
Legal Perspectives and Next Steps
Advocate Vanchinathan has indicated that if no swift action is taken on the new complaint, he will escalate the matter to court. He stressed the importance of holding the Foundation accountable not only for the alleged sexual assaults but also for their failure to report such incidents to the police.
“I will move the court if no action is taken… The police have detailed several missing persons cases and criminal investigations involving Isha Foundation in their report. The authorities must take swift action to protect the vulnerable,” he stated.
Legal experts are now weighing in, with many suggesting that the Foundation could face significant legal challenges if these new allegations are proven in court. “The POCSO Act leaves little room for institutions to evade responsibility in cases of child sexual abuse. If these allegations hold up in court, the consequences could be severe, not just for the perpetrators but for the institution itself,” said a senior lawyer familiar with child protection laws.
Public Reactions: Growing Concerns Over Safety at Isha Foundation
The latest wave of allegations has sparked public concern, especially among families and child welfare advocates. Child rights groups are now calling for a more thorough investigation into the Foundation’s handling of minors. “It is deeply concerning to hear such serious accusations involving children. Institutions like the Isha Foundation need to have robust safeguards in place to protect vulnerable individuals, and any lapses in doing so should be thoroughly investigated,” said a child welfare expert.
Social media has also been abuzz with reactions, with many calling for an independent investigation into the Foundation’s practices. “Spirituality should never be an excuse for ignoring the law. Every child deserves to be safe,” tweeted one concerned citizen, echoing the sentiments of many who have followed the unfolding controversy.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for the Isha Foundation?
As new allegations continue to surface, the Isha Foundation faces mounting legal and public scrutiny. Advocate Vanchinathan’s complaint, coupled with the emotional testimonies of parents, brings the issue of child safety at spiritual institutions like Isha to the forefront of public debate.
The future of the Foundation may hinge on how it responds to these accusations and whether the legal system holds it accountable for the alleged wrongdoings. As investigations progress, it remains to be seen whether the Isha Foundation can restore public trust and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the welfare of its community members, especially its most vulnerable.
For now, all eyes remain on the legal authorities and how they choose to proceed with these latest revelations.
Sources:
- The Hindu https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/advocate-files-police-complaint-against-isha-foundation-over-sexual-assault-of-minors/article68773257.ece
- The Indian Express https://indianexpress.com/article/india/sadhguru-isha-foundation-supreme-court-relief-tamil-nadu-police-report-9627102/
