The controversy surrounding spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev and allegations of women being forced into becoming hermits at the Isha Foundation ashram has taken a new turn. In a move that could potentially alter the course of this high-profile case, Isha Foundation has challenged the Madras High Court’s order to initiate an inquiry.
The organization has filed a petition at the Supreme Court, seeking an urgent hearing. Notably, the central government has shown support for the petition, adding a significant dimension to the proceedings. Senior advocate Mukul Rohtagi has also requested an urgent hearing of the case.
During the initial hearing, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud expressed concern, stating, “You can’t let the Police or Army enter a place like this.” The court also decided to interact with the two women involved in the case online, to hear their perspectives directly.
Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, one of the women joined the hearing online and asserted that she was staying at the Isha Yoga Centre willingly. She further claimed that both sisters are at the Isha Foundation Ashram in Coimbatore of their own will. They also alleged facing harassment from their father’s side for the last eight years. This revelation raises significant questions about the nature of the allegations and the motivations behind them.
The Supreme Court’s decision to hear the case urgently and interact with the women directly underscores the seriousness of the issue. The court’s intervention could potentially lead to a comprehensive understanding of the situation and potentially resolve the controversy.