Police Enquires Allegations at Isha Foundation Following High Court Directive

Authorities held an enquiry at the Isha Foundation following allegations women were 'brainwashed' to reside there. The Madras High Court directed a report listing all cases related to the foundation. Over 150 police personnel were present. The foundation denied advocating monkhood, asserting people have the freedom to choose their path.

The Coimbatore district superintendent of police K Karthikeyan and District Social Welfare Officer R Ambika conducted an enquiry at the Isha Foundation on Tuesday, investigating claims that women were 'brainwashed' into residing at the facility.

This action followed a directive from the Madras High Court on Monday, mandating a status report detailing all cases associated with the foundation located at Velliangiri foothills.

A significant police presence, comprising approximately 150 officers, was deployed to the foundation for precautionary measures during the enquiry.

'The officials held an enquiry with the persons at the foundation,' a senior police official stated.

The High Court's directive came while hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by S Kamaraj, a retired professor from Coimbatore. He alleged that his two daughters were 'brainwashed' into residing at the Isha Yoga Centre and were prohibited from contacting their family.

In response, Isha Foundation denied promoting monkhood or restricting marriages, asserting that such decisions are personal choices. '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 path,' the foundation stated.

The foundation also clarified that it is home to thousands of individuals, including a few who have taken Brahmacharya vows, but denied any coercion. The court directed the monks to appear, and they affirmed their voluntary stay at the Isha Yoga Center.

Additionally, the foundation claimed that the petitioner and others had attempted to trespass under the guise of a fact-finding committee related to the construction of a crematorium. They filed a criminal complaint, but the High Court stayed the submission of the final police report.

'Apart from this, there is no other criminal case against the Foundation. Whoever spreads false information will be dealt with as per the law,' it said.

(With inputs from agencies.)