Mehli Mistry has raised serious governance concerns within the Tata Trusts, flagging a ₹1.42 crore payment received by Noel Tata from Tata Sons and seeking its return to the charitable trusts.
According to an affidavit filed before the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner, Mistry questioned the legitimacy of commissions drawn by trustees from Tata Group companies, arguing that such payments raise conflict-of-interest concerns given the philanthropic nature of the trusts.
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The latest filing comes less than two months after Mistry challenged his removal from the Sir Dorabji Tata Trusts and also disputed his exit from the Sir Ratan Tata Trusts, two key entities that form the backbone of the Tata Trusts ecosystem.
In his petition, Mistry has specifically objected to Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata receiving a commission from Tata Sons. He has also raised similar concerns regarding retired defence secretary Vijay Singh, another trustee alleged to have drawn commissions from group companies.
Additionally, the affidavit points to potential conflicts involving TVS Motor Company chairman emeritus Venu Srinivasan, who also serves as a trustee and a Tata Sons board member, alleging overlapping roles and governance risks.
Mistry has previously sought the appointment of an administrator to oversee the functioning of the charitable trusts, intensifying an ongoing internal dispute within one of India’s most influential philanthropic institutions.
The developments have brought renewed attention to the governance structure of Tata Trusts, which hold a significant stake in Tata Sons and play a crucial role in guiding the group’s strategic direction.
The Charity Commissioner is expected to examine the allegations as part of ongoing proceedings involving trustee appointments, removals and financial disclosures.
