An FIR has been registered against four Isha Foundation staff members and a former student under POCSO and IPC sections for alleged child abuse. The incident raises questions about Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s organization. Full story and investigation updates inside.
An FIR has been registered against four staff members of the Coimbatore-based Isha Foundation and a former student of a school run by the foundation,
under various sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
The former student has been named as the prime accused, while hostel warden Nishanth Kumar, along with Preethi Kumar, Prakash Somayaji, and Swami Vibu, have been listed as co-accused. Charges have been filed under Section 9(l) (attempt to sexually assault a child), Section 10 (aggravated sexual assault), and Section 21(2) (failure to report the offence) of the POCSO Act, along with Section 342 of the IPC (wrongful confinement).
The case pertains to the alleged sexual assault of one student by another between 2017 and 2019, and also accuses the other staff members of negligence in handling the situation.
The FIR was lodged on January 31 at the All Women Police Station, Perur, in Coimbatore Rural, based on a complaint filed by the survivor’s mother.
Although the FIR was registered on January 31, the police handed over the copy of the FIR to the survivor’s family only on March 28. During the statement recording before the magistrate, it was reported that the police delayed providing the necessary documents.
About Isha Foundation
Isha Foundation is a renowned spiritual and social organization founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev. The foundation is known for its work in yoga, education, environmental conservation, and rural development. Its educational institutions attract students from across the country and even abroad.
This case has now raised serious questions about the foundation’s internal systems and management.
Important Information About POCSO and IPC Sections
POCSO Act, Section 9(l): Sexual assault committed by a person in a position of trust or authority over the child.
Section 10: Punishment for aggravated sexual assault, which includes imprisonment of five to seven years.
Section 21(2): Penalty for failing to report the commission of an offence under the POCSO Act.
IPC Section 342: Punishment for wrongful confinement of any person against their will.
Current Status and Further Action
Given the sensitivity of the case, a special police team has been constituted to conduct a thorough investigation. Authorities are also examining whether senior officials within the foundation were aware of the incident. If their involvement or knowledge is proven, they too may face legal action.
The survivor’s family and child rights activists have demanded a transparent and swift investigation.
They fear that the influence of powerful organizations could lead to suppression of facts,
and hence are calling for strict oversight by higher authorities.
Meanwhile, Isha Foundation has issued a statement asserting that they are cooperating fully with the police and that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty.
Personal Reflection
It is truly unfortunate that although the wrongdoing was committed by others,
the name and reputation of Jaggi Guruji are being tarnished.
His opponents have now found an opportunity to attack him.
It deeply saddens me to know that a true Guru,
who works to guide humanity towards God and teaches people to become better human beings,
could have his name spoiled because of the actions of a few immoral individuals.
Conclusion
This incident serves as a reminder of how quickly the reputation of an institution can be damaged by the misconduct of a few.
Transparent investigations and strict accountability are essential to bring the truth to light and protect
the honor of those who are genuinely committed to serving humanity.