Madras HC Orders State To Produce Details Of Criminal Cases Against Isha Foundation Amid Allegations Of Brainwashing And Converting People Into Monks

This discussion arose in the context of a habeas corpus petition filed by petitioner, a retired professor from Coimbatore. He alleged that his two well-educated daughters, aged 42 and 39, had been “brainwashed” into living at the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore. He claimed that the Foundation's authorities are brainwashing and converting them into monks and preventing them from maintaining any contact with their family.

A Division Bench of Justice S.M. Subramaniam and Justice V. Sivagnanam noted the seriousness of the allegations and the testimonies presented during the proceedings. The Court stated, “The learned counsel for the petitioner would also submit that there are several other criminal cases registered and allegations are pending. In view of the serious nature of the allegations raised against the institution and the way and the manner in which the detenues have spoken before us, we could form an opinion that some more delebrations are required to understand the truth behind the allegations. Therefore, the petitioner shall produce the details of criminal cases registered against the institution and the learned Additional Public Prosecutor also shall collect all those case details and place before us for further consideration.”

Advocate M. Purushothoman appeared for the petitioner and Additional Public Prosecutor E. Raj Thilak appeared for the Respondents.

The Court has scheduled the next hearing for October 4.

Cause Title: Dr. S.Kamaraj v. State of Tamil Nadu & Ors.

Appearance:

Petitioner: Advocates M. Purushothoman and M. Prabaharan

Respondents: Additional Public Prosecutor E. Raj Thilak, Advocates M. Suresh and S. Rajendra Kumar

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