Mehli Mistry Challenges Tata Trusts’ Move to End Tenure
Internal rift deepens as Mistry cites “life-term” rule; Noel Tata-led board insists reappointment needs unanimity
- Mehli Mistry challenges Tata Trusts’ decision before Maharashtra Charity Commissioner.
- Board led by Noel Tata, Srinivasan, and Vijay Singh voted against extension.
- Mistry cites 2024 resolution granting life tenure to trustees.
- Government urges Tata leadership to maintain stability amid internal discord.
GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 3rd Nov: The power tussle within Tata Trusts intensified on Monday as Mehli Mistry challenged the board’s decision not to renew his trusteeship before the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner, sources said.
Last week, Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata, along with trustees Venu Srinivasan and Vijay Singh, voted against extending Mistry’s term. If upheld, this move would end Mistry’s tenure, escalating tensions within the powerful group that collectively holds about 66 per cent of Tata Sons.
Mistry has argued that a resolution passed by the Trusts in October 2024 grants all trustees life tenure, stating, “on the expiry of tenure of any trustee, that trustee will be re-appointed… without any limit being attached to period of tenure.” However, sources quoted by PTI said such renewals require unanimous approval from all trustees, suggesting Mistry’s continuation needed full consent.
The conflict comes at a time when Tata Sons, valued at nearly ₹25 lakh crore, faces scrutiny over governance issues. The government has reportedly advised Tata leadership — including Noel Tata and N. Chandrasekaran — to maintain institutional stability and resolve differences internally.
Mistry’s five-year term ended today, while the board recently renewed Chandrasekaran’s tenure as Tata Sons Chairman until 2032. The outcome of Mistry’s challenge could significantly shape the future power balance within the Tata Trusts and the broader Tata Group.
