A recent police report has shook up the Isha Foundation, founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev. This 23-page document, submitted to the Supreme Court of India, unveils serious allegations that could tarnish the foundation's reputation and raise questions about its internal practices.
Troubling allegations
Missing persons
The Tamil Nadu Police have reported six cases of missing individuals linked to the Isha Foundation since 2016. Alarmingly, five of these cases were closed without any further investigation, while one remains open as authorities continue to search for the missing person. This raises significant concerns about safety within the foundation’s environment. Additionally, seven cases related to suicides have also been documented, with two still awaiting forensic analysis.
Sexual assault claims
The report also sheds light on disturbing allegations of sexual assault within the foundation. A woman attending a yoga course in 2021 claimed she was assaulted by another participant. Although she later withdrew her complaint, police are seeking permission to continue their investigation since her statement was never officially recorded and the accused has not been interrogated. Compounding these issues, a doctor associated with Isha Outreach was arrested for alleged sexual misconduct involving minors, highlighting serious concerns about child safety.
Internal management issues
Concerns extend beyond personal safety to the internal management of the foundation. A local school principal filed a POCSO case against a doctor employed by Isha Outreach for allegedly assaulting young girls during medical check-ups. The investigation is ongoing, and the doctor has been denied bail. Reports have also surfaced regarding expired medical equipment and unqualified personnel conducting medical procedures at the foundation.
Impact on the community
Parents are increasingly vocal about their fears regarding their children’s safety within the foundation. During a press conference in October 2024, several parents revealed that their son expressed suicidal thoughts in notes discovered during the COVID-19 lockdown. They criticized the foundation for its lack of transparency and communication surrounding these grave issues. Another mother shared her heartbreak over her seven-year-old daughter’s attempted suicide following alleged assaults by teachers at the center.
Legal developments
The Supreme Court recently dismissed a habeas corpus petition filed by a father who claimed his daughters were being illegally confined at the Isha Yoga Centre. The court found that both women confirmed they were living there voluntarily. However, this ruling does not address ongoing investigations into other serious allegations against the foundation.
The revelations from this police report have raised deep concerns about safety, accountability, and transparency within the Isha Foundation. As investigations go on, the future of Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s organization hangs in the balance.
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