For years, a coordinated narrative campaign has tried to cast Auroville — a township created by international goodwill and enshrined in Indian law — as something it was never meant to be: an eco-village retirement hub for foreigners, a political trophy for ideological factions, or a battleground in India’s culture wars.

Those narratives reached a climax with the recent Auroville Foundation v. Natasha Storey verdict on 17 March 2025, when the Supreme Court of India unequivocally rejected claims of mismanagement, environmental destruction, and political interference — describing a pattern of litigation by a tiny minority as “ill-motivated” obstruction of legally approved development.

Yet, even after the highest court in the land delivered clarity, the campaign against Auroville’s development continues — driven by a peculiar alliance of critics on both the left and the right, using contradictory rhetoric to achieve the same end: freeze Auroville in time.

1. Targeted Campaign Against Jayanti Ravi: A Smokescreen for Ideological Battles

At the centre of the latest controversy is an orchestrated attack on Jayanti Ravi, Secretary of the Auroville Foundation. Social media threads and political commentators from vastly different ideological corners have seized on her role, not for any lawful misconduct, but as a punching bag in a broader political culture war.

Figures from the left accuse her of pushing a “Hindutva agenda.” Right-leaning commentators decry her as an outsider. Neither faction grapples with the real legal question: she is executing her statutory duties under an Act of Parliament — a fact affirmed repeatedly by the Supreme Court.

The attacks are less about governance and more about vendettas: when you have no arguments left on law or facts, you attack the person.

2. Foreign Squatters On Indian Land

Auroville’s residents – Indian and foreign – live under Indian laws and visa regulations. Residency is governed by the Auroville Foundation Act, 1988 a legislation passed by the Indian Parliament – not by social media sentiment.

Foreign nationals in Auroville hold legal visas and residency status; those who violate norms can and have had visas cancelled. This is due process, not an arbitrary crackdown.

Auroville was never intended as an enclave insulated from Indian sovereignty — it is, by statute, under central governance and subject to Indian law. Suggesting otherwise undermines India’s constitutional framework and feeds xenophobic narratives that have no basis in legal reality.

3. Lost Every Court Case — Right Up To The Supreme Court

Opposition voices have trafficked in claims ranging from land scams and environmental catastrophe to ideological capture. But the judicial record tells a singular story:

The Madras High Court reaffirmed the Foundation’s legal authority.

The National Green Tribunal’s restrictions were struck down.

The Supreme Court dismissed multiple petitions and criticized the strategy of serial litigation.

In other words: those accusing the Auroville administration of illegality lost every single legal battle, up to the Supreme Court of India.

When legal arguments fail at every judicial level, what remains is narrative warfare — and that is precisely what we are witnessing.

4. Auroville Was Never A Retirement Eco-Village

Some still cling to the outdated idea of Auroville as a quaint, foreign-centric eco-village. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Auroville’s founding documents — the Galaxy Plan and subsequent Master Plans approved in 2001 and gazetted in 2010 — were conceived as a structured, sustainable township for 50,000 residents rooted in human unity.

It was never intended to be a retirement community for wealthy foreigners who choose to settle in India indefinitely. It was never intended to sideline Indian identity, culture or law. And it was certainly never meant to be stuck in litigation forever.

5. Environmental Restoration, Not Destruction

A core claim from detractors has been that development equals ecological destruction. This, too, collapses under scrutiny:

The land in question was not legally classified as forest under the Forest (Conservation) Act.

Any tree clearance was matched with compensatory afforestation.

Water-body and infrastructure works are part of a long-approved plan meant to enhance ecological resilience, not erode it.

Technical consultation from Indian institutions has informed environmental strategy.

Planning and implementing the envisioned plan is not plunder.

7. What’s Really At Stake? 

The real tragedy is not ecological impact, nor foreign residency, nor political appointment — it’s a battle of narratives. A small activist faction — amplified by news outlets and social media influencers — continues to manufacture conflict where there is none. The usual suspects of the left have their own agenda and see Jayanti Ravi as Modi’s person. A section of the right has targeted because they’re suddenly upset with Modi.

But Auroville is not a political battleground to settle scores. It’s a peaceful haven for seekers who follow the vision of The Mother. A legal framework exists.

Auroville’s future should not be held hostage to social media campaigns, partisan activists, or contradictory political narratives opposed to development.

The Mother’s vision was never meant to be a retirement retreat or a media spectacle. It was meant to be built.

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The post Auroville Must Not Turn Into A Political Battleground, Mother’s Vision Must Be Protected From Becoming Into A Foreign Enclave appeared first on The Commune.

A French investigative journalist has revealed that the US govt controls the media organization OCCRP, dictating that any story it ran was influenced & lacked genuine backing.

But what is its connection with Congress?

On 1 July 2021, OCCRP reported that Brazil had pulled out of a $324 million deal for Covaxin from India.

On 2 July 2021, Congress quickly latched onto the article and pushed the narrative further. This news had already been reported in June, but Congress reacted only after OCCRP’s article.

1- On 1 July 2021, OCCRP reported that Brazil had pulled out of a $324 million deal for Covaxin from India.

On 2 July, Congress quickly latched onto the article and pushed the narrative further.

This news had already been reported in June, but Congress reacted only after… pic.twitter.com/RhuTjIjHfO

— Political Kida (@PoliticalKida) December 3, 2024

The same modus operandi was followed in the Adani fiasco. OCCRP began running hit jobs against the Adani Group, and Rahul Gandhi, along with Congress, followed the narrative. OCCRP set the agenda, and Rahul complied.

18 July 2021: OCCRP initiated the Pegasus fiasco.

From 19 July onwards, Congress deployed all its machinery to push the narrative.

26 August 2022: The Supreme Court declared the claims false, stating no evidence of Pegasus was found.

In July 2022, OCCRP claimed that a completely legal proceeding against Rahul Gandhi was politically motivated and sparked “nationwide” protests, which was far from reality. Why did OCCRP go out of its way to defend Rahul Gandhi?

OCCRP is funded by foundations owned by George Soros.

Rahul Gandhi is known to have connections with Soros. He was also seen walking with Salil Shetty, the Vice President of one of Soros’ foundations.

Rahul Gandhi met with Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, a Bangladeshi journalist from OCCRP known for peddling agendas against India.

Why Rahul Gandhi was interacting with someone working against our national interests remains unclear.

Anand Mangnale, who allegedly handed Chinese money to Sharjeel Imam for the Delhi riots, works for OCCRP.

Mangnale is linked to Congress and was actively fundraising for them while being part of DPSG.

(This article is based on an X thread by Political Kida)

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The post Congress Scion Rahul Gandhi & His Links To Soros-Funded OCCRP appeared first on The Commune.

Terming it as “absurd and baseless”, India on Saturday trashed allegations made by the Justin Trudeau-led government that linked Union Home Minister Amit Shah – the “latest Canadian target” – to the targeting of pro-Khalistan activists in Canada, emphasising that the “unfounded insinuations” are part of Ottawa’s “conscious strategy” to discredit India.

“We had summoned the representative of the Canadian High Commission yesterday. A diplomatic note was handed over in reference to the proceedings of the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security in Ottawa on October 29th, 2024. It was conveyed in the note that the Government of India protests in the strongest terms to the absurd and baseless references made to the Union Home Minister of India before the Committee by Deputy Minister David Morrison,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a weekly media briefing.

“In fact, the revelation that high Canadian officials deliberately leak unfounded insinuations to the international media as part of a conscious strategy to discredit India and influence other nations only confirms the view the Government of India has long held about the current Canadian government’s political agenda and behavioral pattern. Such irresponsible actions will have serious consequences for bilateral ties,” added Jaiswal. Earlier this week, while appearing before the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (SECU), Trudeau’s National Security and Intelligence Advisor Nathalie Drouin and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs David Morrison admitted that they had leaked the so-called ‘intelligence” on India, including the details about the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar last year, to the American media, much before it was revealed at home.

“The leak from Nathalie Drouin and David Morrison, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, accused India’s powerful Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah of directing the violent operations from New Delhi,” reported Canada’s leading daily The Globe and Mail on October 29. The leaks had once again exposed the Trudeau government’s continued vindictive campaign against India. Last month, Trudeau, who has been harping on having “credible evidence” on India’s involvement in the killing of Nijjar, admitted that Ottawa had only some intelligence inputs and no hard proof before publicly accusing India. Testifying before the country’s foreign interference inquiry, Trudeau admitted that New Delhi had demanded sharing of proofs – something that India continues to insist till date – after the allegations.

“At that point, it was primarily intelligence, not hard evidentiary proof,” Trudeau admitted in an on-camera hearing before the committee. New Delhi has been asserting for a long time that the Trudeau government has “consciously provided” space to violent extremists and terrorists to harass, threaten and intimidate Indian diplomats and community leaders in Canada.

India had announced the withdrawal of its High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma and other diplomats from Canada on October 14, after the Trudeau government – in what was termed as “preposterous imputations” by New Delhi – suggested that the Indian diplomats are ‘persons of interest’ in a matter related to an investigation in the country. India had repeatedly underlined that, in an atmosphere of extremism and violence, it had no faith in the current Canadian Government’s commitment to ensure their security.

–IANS

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The post Unfounded, Absurd And Baseless Insinuations Part Of Canada’s Strategy To Discredit India: MEA appeared first on The Commune.

A PhD scholar from Bharathiar University stirred significant attention during the university’s 39th convocation by presenting a letter of complaint to Tamil Nadu’s Governor, RN Ravi, while accepting his degree. The letter, representing the concerns of research scholars and students, outlines serious issues they face on campus, including allegations that some faculty members require students to perform household tasks.

The 39th convocation took place on 14 October 2024, in Coimbatore. During the ceremony, Prakash, a PhD scholar in English, spoke about the challenges faced by his fellow students at Bharathiar University. His petition, titled “Problems Faced by Research Scholars and Students of Bharathiyar University,” asserts that some guides do not view research scholars as academic equals. Instead, they impose domestic responsibilities such as washing dishes, caring for their children, and managing bank accounts. Additionally, they claim that the guidance offered is often insufficient.

The letter also raises concerns about the Adi Dravidar hostels, which are publicly managed, leading to a significant financial burden for Scheduled Caste students in terms of monthly mess fees. Additionally, Prakash reported that some guides suggest that scholars spend between fifty thousand and one lakh rupees during their viva. These scholars are pressured to provide money, food, and even gold to certain guides after successful examinations.

திருட்டு திராவிடியம் எப்படி தமிழ்நாட்டின் உயர்கல்வியை சிதைத்துக்கொண்டிருக்குது என்பதை தைரியமாக சொன்ன இவருக்கு வாழ்த்துக்கள்.

மக்களே இதுக்கு தான் படிச்சவன் கைகளில் ஆட்சிய கொடுங்க னு சொல்றோம், அப்பன் பேரு தத்தன் பேரு சொல்லி வந்தவங்களுக்கு எல்லாம் படிப்போடா அருமை தெரியாது. pic.twitter.com/fRLTkOEtpP

— Murali (@MuraliS27) October 14, 2024

Furthermore, the complaint highlights that although students are charged for participation in Sports Day events, the university has not hosted such events in the last four years. While students and staff are restricted from using the sports facilities, they are being rented out to outsiders on weekends.

Later, speaking to the press, he noted that while there are two Adi Dravidar hostels, they are poorly maintained and functioning as a common hostel. As a result, funding from the government has been halted, leading officials to claim that there are no Adi Dravidar hostels available, additionally questions the allocation of one crore and where the funds are being directed.

(With inputs from Times Now)

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The post PhD Scholar Hands Over Complaint Letter Highlighting Faculty Misconduct, Bribery, And Student Issues To TN Guv During Convocation At Bharathiar University appeared first on The Commune.

The Supreme Court, on 4 October 2024, ordered the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to probe allegations that substandard ghee containing animal fat was used in the preparation of laddus at the revered Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. The allegations, raised by the Andhra Pradesh government under N Chandrababu Naidu, claimed that the previous government led by the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu (YSR) Congress Party was responsible for the use of the tainted ghee.

A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan directed that the SIT would consist of two officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), two from the Andhra Pradesh State Police, and one senior officer from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The probe will be conducted under the supervision of the CBI director.

“In order to assuage the feelings of crores of people, we find that an investigation by an independent SIT consisting of representatives from the State police, CBI, and FSSAI shall be done,” the Court said.

The SIT previously appointed by the state government will be replaced by this new team, with appointments made by the respective heads of CBI and FSSAI. The Court emphasized that its order should not be viewed as a reflection on the current state-appointed SIT, stating, “We clarify that our order should not be construed as a reflection on the independence and fairness of the members of the state SIT. We have constituted the committee only to assuage the feelings of crores of people having faith in the deity.”

The hearing was in response to four petitions seeking an independent investigation into the serious allegations. Among the petitioners were former MP Dr. Subramanian Swamy, YSR Congress Party leader and former Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) chairperson YV Subba Reddy, historian Vikram Sampath, Vedic speaker Dushyanth Sridhar, and news anchor Suresh Chavhanke.

During previous hearings, the Court expressed concern over Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s public statements, which accused the YSR Congress Party of using animal fat in the laddus, despite the lack of conclusive evidence. The Court questioned the CM’s decision to go public without definitive proof, with Justice Gavai stating that the claims “should not have been made prematurely.”

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Central government, supported the formation of an independent SIT. “If there is any truth in the allegations, it is unacceptable. The sentiments of devotees are spread across the country. Let it be supervised by a senior officer from a Central government force. That will inspire confidence,” he suggested.

Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Andhra Pradesh government, defended the state’s investigation, stating, “We wish to go ahead with the SIT. Any officer of the court’s choice can be added. There can be no allegation against the SIT. We cannot go by some newspaper report.”

However, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing YV Subba Reddy, argued that Chief Minister Naidu’s statements had already compromised the integrity of the investigation. “An impartial independent investigation needs to be ordered,” Sibal said.

The Court underscored the gravity of the allegations, noting the widespread faith in the temple. “Politics is taking over the faith of crores of people,” remarked Solicitor General Mehta, as the Court moved to form the new SIT.

The SIT will now begin its investigation, and the Court will oversee its progress to ensure impartiality and fairness. The case continues to stir political tensions between the ruling and opposition parties in Andhra Pradesh, with both sides trading accusations over the issue.

This move by the Supreme Court marks a significant step toward addressing the concerns of millions of devotees and ensuring that the sanctity of one of India’s most revered temples is upheld.

(With inputs from Bar and Bench)

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The post “Sentiments Of Crores Of Devotees At Stake”: SC Orders SIT Probe Into Ghee Adulteration Allegations In Tirupati Laddu appeared first on The Commune.

Malayalam film star and award winner Rima Kallingal who rose to fame with her performance in 22 Female Kottayam is back in the news. Singer Suchitra has made serious allegations against Rima Kallingal and her husband, Aashiq Abu. In a recent interview on the SS Buzz YouTube Channel, Suchitra claimed that Rima had been hosting frequent parties at her home where drugs are widely used by attendees of all genders.

Suchitra accused Rima Kallingal of organizing these drug-fueled gatherings and suggested that many young women are being introduced to drug use at these events. She also stated that the decline in Rima Kallingal’s career can be attributed to her parties. “Certain things should never be allowed at a party, even if attended by adults. I was deeply shocked to learn about Rima Kallingal’s involvement in such activities,” Suchitra remarked.

Rima Kallingal & Aashiq Abu

Kallingal married Abu in 2013. Back in 2015, Abu and Kallingal were allegedly linked to a then-recently busted cocaine case. They both denied any involvement, but the rumours connecting them to the case escalated after the arrest of actor Shine Tom Chacko for cocaine consumption and possession. Although no specific names were initially mentioned, social media memes hinted at Aashiq’s alleged drug use, and sections of the vernacular media reported that the Kerala Police could question Aashiq, Rima, and actor Fahadh Faasil regarding the case.

Fundraiser corruption

The Kochi Music Foundation (KMF) organized a charity concert called ‘Karuna‘ on 1 November 2019 to raise funds for flood relief in Kerala. However, more than three months after the event, the Foundation has not yet deposited the collected funds into the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF), as promised. This was confirmed by the state’s finance department, which responded to an RTI query stating that no donation from the Kochi Music Foundation had been received in connection with the concert. One of the main organizers, Bijibal, acknowledged the delay, explaining that they planned to remit the funds by March 31, 2020. Despite the event being hailed as a significant success, with substantial revenue generated from ticket sales, the delay in transferring the funds has raised concerns and criticism. The event was organized by KMF, which included Aashiq Abu, his wife and actress Rima Kallingal, singer Shahbaz Aman, and music director Bijibal.

Movie director Aashiq Abu, his wife Rima Kallingal and their friends are under scanner for siphoning millions of Rupees!
They conducted a Music Event in the name of raising funds for Flood relief & as per RTI records, not a single Rupee has been transferred to CM Relief Fund yet! pic.twitter.com/JCUl7mArNL

— നചികേതസ് (@nach1keta) February 14, 2020

Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden publicly questioned whether Aashiq Abu had made the payment. In response, Abu posted an image of a cheque for Rs 6.22 lakh dated 14 February 2020, after the controversy had surfaced. Eden accused Abu of issuing the cheque only due to the backlash. Rima Kallingal, a key member of the KMF, was indirectly implicated due to her involvement with the Foundation.

Hypocrisy In Outraging To Harassment Cases

Rima Kallingal’s hypocrisy in choosing cases to outrage is mindblowing. Here, we explore two cases where Kallingal’s hypocrisy is blatantly exposed.

Working With Vinayakan

Kallingal & Abu produced a film in 2020, which happened to be the directorial debut of actor Vinakayan. Vinayakan was accused of sexual harassment. It was reported that Vinayakan denied the allegation, was arrested a few weeks later and released on bail immediately.

The case was then twisted into a caste issue, and the lady who accused him of harassment went on to support the film. The News Minute reported this statement – “I recognise that those who are now speaking against Vinayakan becoming a director are displaying casteism. In Indian cinema, world cinema, and Malayalam cinema, there are several accused and those who committed crimes going about their profession. The people have also accepted it. Since I see it as caste discrimination to say that Vinayakan alone should not be allowed to direct, I wish to express my view that the attempts to prevent the actor from becoming a director are not in line with the Ambedkarite in me. Aashiq Abu is from the Muslim community, which is facing othering in India. So are the Dalits in India. I see Vinayakan and Aashiq Abu coming together as also Dalit-Muslim brotherhood,” Mrudula added.

Kallingal and Abu faced criticism for their decision to work with actor Vinayakan, especially after the sexual harassment accusations came out. Critics question how Rima, a member of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), could support this while the WCC has condemned others for working with actor Dileep, accused in a high-profile assault case.

Working With Sajin Babu – Named In Hema Committee Report

Director Sajin Babu worked with Kallingal for his film Theatre at the time when his name appeared in the Hema Committee Report. She hasn’t issued any statement in this regard.

Director #SajinBabu; who is the director of #Theatre starring WCC Founding member #RimaKallingal has been accused of Sexual Harassment not only that he said that he narrated the incident with WCC members but still the Founding member Rima gave him dates for the movie. pic.twitter.com/8EVSz29vYX

— . (@malayalifromIND) August 27, 2024

It’s the WCC themselves who have called for a “zero tolerance policy to sexual harassment across the industry.” However, they do not seem to have applied their standards consistently to all alleged perpetrators.

Rima Kallingal & Dhanya Rajendran – Partners In Crime?

It is worth mentioning that Rima Kallingal, along with a few other members of the WCC, such as Parvathy Thiruvothu, are besties of The News Minute editor Dhanya Rajendran. Her reportage of incidents involving Rima Kallingal or her hypocrisy is questionable. The issue involving Vinayakan became twisted, and the film that could have been shelved did not see any hindrance, mainly because of the harassment case.

The drug allegations from 2015, the corruption charges in the post-2018 Kerala floods fundraiser, and now the claims made by Suchitra are met with radio silence from the self-proclaimed champion of women’s rights and messiah of victims – Dhanya Rajendran.

A mere glance at Kallingal’s Instagram page will tell you how close the duo is:

The silence of @dhanyarajendran and @thenewsminute on the corruption charges against @rimakallingal and @aashiqabu is deafening!

But these pictures say a thousand words!! pic.twitter.com/onMxCGwlYT

— നചികേതസ് (@nach1keta) February 17, 2020

It will be interesting to see what kind of denial Kallingal gives to Suchitra’s accusations and how Rajendran buttresses her friend’s case.

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The post What TNM’s Dhanya Rajendran Will Not Tell You About Her Bestie, Malayalam Actress Rima Kallingal appeared first on The Commune.

The Isha Foundation in Tamil Nadu has consistently faced attacks from Dravidianists and Periyarists who view the foundation as a threat to their pseudo-atheism, which opposes only Hinduism. Their ongoing mission is to tarnish the reputation of the Isha Foundation. They devise strategic plots to damage its image, leveraging their favored news media for a ‘Hit and Run’ job, followed by deliberate silence. The Dravidian media in Tamil Nadu refrains from follow-ups that do not align with their agenda.

This orchestrated effort aims to create a perception among the public that Isha is at fault. However, there is always another side to the story. Despite all allegations, every accusation against the Isha Foundation has been proven false in a court of law.

Myth#1 – Crematorium Case

The all-famous The News Minute (TNM), sympathetic to the Dravidianist and Periyarist cause, peddled misinformation that an FIR had been lodged against the Isha Yoga Foundation in Coimbatore, following a complaint from the Thanthai Periyar Dravida Kazhagam (TPDK). Allegedly, TPDK activists were attacked on 15 June 2024 while visiting an allegedly illegally constructed crematorium at Boluvampatti village, attributed to Isha Yoga.

TNM strategically presented one side of the story, portraying the Isha Foundation negatively that TPDK’s general secretary informed police that their vehicle was stopped and its window broken by individuals associated with Isha Yoga. However, the dispute between TPDK and the Isha Yoga center stemmed from TPDK activists visiting without official sanction, claiming to be a ‘Fact-Finding Committee’. A scuffle ensued, following which TPDK tactically filed an FIR at Alandurai police station, playing the victim. Rather than stopping there, TNM promoted TPDK almost as if it were a tribal activist group, highlighting allegations against the Isha Foundation that had already been refuted.

The Tamil “journal” Nakheeran presented a narrative from Periyarists and Dravidianists suggesting that there are ample crematoriums in the vicinity, implying that Isha Foundation’s construction of one is arbitrary and linked to mysterious deaths.

The truth of the matter concerning the crematorium is that the area is predominantly inhabited by Scheduled Tribes. These villages lack adequate cremation facilities, with the nearest crematorium located 20 km away. In response to local requests, the Isha Yoga Centre initiated construction of a modern electric crematorium to serve these villages. In fact, residents from six villages near the Poondi hills, including several Scheduled Tribes communities, petitioned the Coimbatore District Collector to take action against those spreading rumors about the upcoming Isha crematorium. They clarified that the construction was a response to their genuine need for closer cremation facilities, dispelling misinformation spread by a few individuals.

Earlier, Subramanian, identified as a Dravidianist, filed a case against the crematorium in the Madras High Court. During the court proceedings, the Madras High Court directed the Pollution Control Board to inspect the electric crematorium and provide a detailed report. On 14 June 2024, members of the TPDK, posing as a ‘Fact-Finding Committee‘, attempted to enter the Isha premises. This action led to a confrontational situation between the administrators and TPDK members. It’s worth noting that the Coimbatore District Court had already issued an order prohibiting unauthorized individuals from accessing the construction site of the electric crematorium.

The Madras High Court has intervened to halt the Alandurai police in Coimbatore district from concluding their investigation into a criminal intimidation case involving C.R. Dinesh Raja, an administrator at the Isha Yoga Centre and directed the registration of a case and the submission of an investigation report against members of  TPDK. Justice G Jayachandran provided temporary relief by issuing an order to restrain any final report until further notice, scheduling a returnable date for 21 August 2024. The judge expressed skepticism regarding the complaint, noting its lack of specific details about the alleged offence and questioned the authority under which they attempted to enter the Isha premises.

Interestingly, neither TNM nor other Dravidianist media outlets, which previously portrayed the Isha Yoga Foundation in a negative light, reported on these court proceedings. These cases effectively discredited the false allegations made by the TPDK, which sought to present itself as a victim. It is evident that their agenda primarily targets Hinduism rather than any genuine tribal or environmental activism.

Myth#2 – The Elephant Corridor & Isha Mahashivaratri Ban

The Isha Foundation itself clarified that, In the affidavits submitted by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department to the National Green Tribunal’s Southern Zone, Chennai, there is no mention that Isha is situated within an elephant corridor. Similarly, the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, in its counter affidavit, does not indicate that Isha falls within an elephant corridor. Additionally, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), in response to an RTI query, did not include Isha or its vicinity in the list of elephant corridors in Tamil Nadu. The Gajah Report by the Elephant Task Force and the document ‘Right Of Passage – Elephant Corridors of India’ by the Wildlife Trust of India also do not identify the area where Isha is located as an elephant corridor. Eminent scientists specializing in elephant conservation have explicitly stated that the Isha Foundation is not situated near an elephant corridor.

Every year as Mahashivaratri approaches, there are cases filed against the Isha Yoga Center for organizing the celebration. Various groups aligned with Periyarist and Dravidian ideologies seek to ban the event, often making headlines in Tamil media, claiming that the festivities could disturb animals in the nearby hilly areas. However, after the initial uproar, these claims typically fade into silence.

Regarding the Vetriselvan case at the southern bench of the National Green Tribunal, the court allowed the Isha Foundation to conduct its Mahashivaratri festival, provided it obtained the necessary permissions from the district administration, police, and forest department. The case was filed due to concerns that the foundation had been built on encroached land and that the festival could disturb an elephant corridor, potentially leading to human-wildlife conflict.

In its ruling, the Tribunal noted, “The Regional Chief Conservator of Forests confirmed that there is no encroachment by the Isha Foundation in the forest area. Although the area is not designated as an elephant corridor, restrictions have been imposed due to the passage of elephants in that region. The Tribunal directed the removal of certain structures erected during the Maha Shivaratri function and mandated the maintenance of a green belt to mitigate noise pollution.” The Tribunal also acknowledged that matters concerning encroachment are pending before the High Court and refrained from making decisions on those issues. It instructed the Tamil Nadu State Pollution Control Board to ensure that noise levels during the event comply with permissible limits.

Throughout this process, the Isha Foundation has consistently denied any violation of environmental laws and has repeatedly rejected claims that it is located within an elephant corridor. The Tribunal’s order explicitly stated that no incidents of human-wildlife conflict have been reported during the Maha Shivaratri festival, and it affirmed that the Isha Yoga Centre is not situated within an elephant corridor.

Even the recently concluded Mahashivaratri festival organized by the Isha Foundation faced legal challenges, some Dravidianists sought a ban through the High Court. The DMK-owned Sun News promptly highlighted this as breaking news, but the festival proceeded as planned. Shouldn’t the media’s responsibility be to also cover why the celebration was allowed to continue? Despite this, media sympathetic to the Dravidianist cause continues to allege that the Isha Yoga Center is situated within an elephant corridor.

Myth#3 – Brainwashing Volunteers

Several allegations were leveled against the Isha Foundation, including one highlighted by Dravidianist groups regarding a case filed by a retired professor. He accused the Center of brainwashing his two daughters into becoming sanyasins, leading to a Habeas Corpus petition in the Madras High Court. This narrative gained traction in Dravidianist media outlets but was ultimately debunked by the Madras High Court itself through a fact-finding process.

The Division Bench of Justices S. Nagamuthu and V. Bharathidasan dismissed the plea after reviewing the report of the Principal District Judge (PDJ), who had visited the Isha Yoga Center and interviewed Maa Mathi and Maa Maayu on August 10. The court’s order in H.C.P.No.1656 of 2016 highlighted that the PDJ’s report “categorically mentioned that there is no truth in the allegation, and that the individuals are staying at the Foundation voluntarily.”

In their ruling, the bench refuted the baseless allegations against the foundation, stating, “We are satisfied that the individuals are staying in the Isha Foundation on their own volition following a path of Sanyasin which they like. Therefore, no relief as prayed for in this petition can be granted… As a result, this Habeas Corpus Petition is dismissed”

The Isha Foundation expressed gratitude to the Madras High Court for affirming the truth and putting an end to misinformation spread by detractors against them.

Furthermore, the foundation clarified that all accusations of captivity, brainwashing, or coercion into sanyas or brahmacharya are entirely false. It emphasized that the establishment aims to promote human wellbeing, and the volunteers, numbering over 3 million worldwide, participate willingly. Approximately 1500 full-time volunteers, including brahmacharis and married individuals, reside at the Isha Yoga Center by their own choice and can leave freely anytime.

Specifically addressing the case of Maa Mathi (34) and Maa Maayu (31), who have been at the ashram for seven years and chose brahmacharya five years ago, the foundation reiterated that their decision was entirely voluntary and reflects their spiritual path. Brahmacharya, seen as a sacred commitment in Isha, is not imposed but carefully considered by applicants through introspection and self-assessment. The foundation emphasized that the idea of forcing brahmacharya on anyone is against their principles, and acceptance into this path is based on personal commitment, integrity, and sincere aspiration.

Myth#4 – Missing Volunteers Case

Another accusation is the volunteers were mysteriously missing but this too was busted. The Tamil Nadu police announced on 18 April 2024 that they had cleared Isha Foundation of any wrongdoing regarding the disappearance of six volunteers from its yoga center at the base of Velliangiri in Coimbatore district. They stated that most of the missing volunteers had returned, having left the center for personal reasons.

This announcement came during proceedings before Justices MS Ramesh and Sunder Mohan, who were overseeing a habeas corpus petition filed by C Thirumalai of Kulasekarapatti in Tirunelveli district, concerning his missing brother C Ganesan since March 2023.

According to the petitioner, Ganesan was serving as a volunteer at the yoga center. He received a call from the center on 2 March 2024, inquiring about Ganesan’s whereabouts, which alerted him to his brother’s disappearance. The center’s administrator, Dinesh, filed a complaint with the Alandurai police on 5 March 2024, leading to a missing person case being registered. As Ganesan remained untraceable, Thirumalai filed the habeas corpus petition.

During the hearing, Additional Public Prosecutor E Raj Thilak informed the court that 36 individuals, including employees and volunteers at the Isha Yoga Center, had been questioned. However, more time was requested to compile a comprehensive status report.

Responding to queries about other missing volunteers mentioned in previous hearings, the prosecutor stated that while five more volunteers were initially reported missing, most had since returned to the center, attributing their absence to personal reasons.  The Madras High Court cautioned that if the petitioner, who lodged the lawsuit concerning his brother’s disappearance, fails to attend the hearing, the case will be dismissed. Notably, neither the petitioner nor his attorney were present during the hearing, as observed by the bench. Consequently, the judges took note of the submissions made in their absence and instructed the High Court registry to schedule the case for 7 June 2024, with the designation “For Dismissal,” emphasizing that it would represent the final opportunity for the petitioner to appear.

Myth#5 – Isha’s Samskriti Case

Vetriselvan, who had previously pushed for a ban on the Isha Yoga Mahashivaratri celebration, also sought to restrict Isha schools that teach Vedic knowledge and traditional Indian martial arts like Kalari. However, the Madras High Court dismissed a petition filed by lawyer M. Vetriselvan, which sought an interim injunction to prevent an Isha school from admitting children aged six to eight and teaching Veda and other subjects. The court criticized Vetriselvan’s petition, stating it attempted to constrain educational diversity.

The First Bench, comprising Chief Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice M. M. Sundresh, observed that India has various educational systems, noting the historical method where children learned under scholars, and later the adoption of boarding schools influenced by English education. The court emphasized that today, multiple forms of education exist and it is inappropriate for any individual to impose a singular model. The bench dismissed the application, viewing it as having potential ulterior motives.

The case stemmed from Vetriselvan’s original PIL concerning the Isha Foundation’s activities in the Vellingiri foothills of Coimbatore, specifically focusing on Isha Samskriti, a school for children aged 6 to 18, housed in what he termed an ‘unapproved’ building. He alleged violations of Constitutional Articles 14 and 21, and criticized the School and Elementary Education departments for purportedly neglecting their duties. Vetriselvan claimed that the foundation did not adhere to Tamil Nadu government standards for education, thereby depriving children of their right to free and compulsory education from ages 6 to 14.

It is to be noted, the Isha Samskriti program represents a unique amalgamation of Yogic practices, traditional Indian arts like Bharatanatyam and Classical Music, and martial arts such as Kalaripayattu, rooted in Dhanurveda, aimed at fostering physical and mental balance and stability in children. These ancient art forms, far from being mere entertainment or hobbies, have served as profound spiritual practices for millennia. The program also emphasizes Samskrit, a language renowned for its spiritual depth, as a significant component of the curriculum. Alongside this, children study English and basic Mathematics.

In an environment characterized by dedication, discipline, and focused learning, every aspect of the children’s daily lives is meticulously designed to nurture their inner potential. Starting around ages 7 to 8, they undergo a comprehensive, life-oriented education that continues until they reach 18. Through this holistic approach, children evolve into dynamic, competent, and committed individuals poised to positively impact the world around them.

In conclusion, the Isha Foundation has faced persistent and unfounded attacks from Periyarist and Dravidianist groups, who have repeatedly defamed it with fabricated narratives and false allegations. Despite courts consistently debunking these claims as baseless, these efforts continue unabated. The biased portrayal by sympathetic media in Tamil Nadu, which often presents only half-truths, remains a troubling reality.

Interestingly, Karunya University, designated as a Christian minority institution, has not been subjected to similar levels of litigation and allegations by these groups. Environmentalists have pointed out that the institutions face similar issues regarding violations and lack of approvals. For instance, Karunya University, sprawling over 800 acres, is located in an elephant corridor that includes wetlands and numerous water sources of the River Noyyal.

(With inputs from Einstein & Agathiyar)

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The post Unmasking The Campaign Against Isha Foundation: Debunking Myths & Allegations Peddled By Dravidianist Media appeared first on The Commune.

It all began when Leela Samson, the former director of Kalakshetra Foundation made an accusatory post against a teacher (who she did not name) on her Facebook account. The post was later deleted.

Over the past few days, several other articles pinpointing the nature of the teacher-student relationship in an institution like Kalakshetra have been cropping up, especially by the likes of The News Minute, The Print and so on.

According to TNM and The Print, students interviewed claim that a teacher named Hari Padman had behaved inappropriately with the students. However, a report by News 18 reveals that the students were disciplined by the teacher as is the culture of the institution.

While most of these accounts are anecdotal and far too few without any hard-hitting evidence, the truth behind the matter is far from what has been reported by TNM which has even exaggerated the location of institution saying, “Kalakshetra’s geography isolates it from the city, and most students doing their fine arts courses live on campus.”, sounding as if young girls and boys are taken to an isolated island to be tortured and harassed.

Kalakshetra Foundation is located in Thiruvanmiyur at the edge of Adyar, Chennai which is one of the prime spots of the city. Just like Theosophical Society in Adyar, the institute has a sprawling campus with greenery and feels completely different from the hustle and bustle of a busy city.

The institute was founded on the principle of a gurukula system by Rukmini Devi Arundale and to date has been following that tradition and style of teaching and learning. An integral part of Indian culture and knowledge system, is the guru-sishya parampara which is the mode of transmission of knowledge – be it the arts, philosophy, or spirituality. In this parampara or practice, the disciple (sishya) lived with the teacher (guru) and learn not just the subject matter but also moral values and life skills. The relationship between the guru and the sishya is considered sacred and is based on mutual respect and devotion.

This Indic tradition has been a target of attack by the leftists who for long have likened it to an exploitative system with their oppressor-opressed binary. Artist-activists such as TM Krishna, Chinmayi, and Anita Ratnam have been propagating the idea that not everything about the guru-sishya relationship is sacred and that it must be scrutinised.

Leela Samson And The Controversies Surrounding Her

During her 7-year tenure as the head of the organisation, Leela Samson has been accused of making “irregular” appointments and placing “arbitrary” contracts flouting rules and procedures as the Director of Kalakshetra Foundation. Doubts were also cast over her qualifications by her own colleagues from Kalakshetra.

There have also been allegations made against Samson herself like the one below. However, news portals did not find it fitting enough to report on.

The Case So Far

The sexual harassment allegations against Haripadman are based on anonymous posts on social media platforms. The Director of the institution, Revathy Ramachandran, had already established an Internal Complaint Committee when the matter was brought to light. Despite the absence of an official complaint, Revathy Ramachandran took suo moto action to address the issue. The internal investigation, led by the current director of the Kalakshetra Foundation, Revathi Ramachandran, concluded that the allegations against the accused teacher Hari Padman were baseless rumors created by “vested interests” to damage the institution’s reputation.

On March 19 of this year, the ICC cleared Hari Padman of any wrongdoing. The National Commission for Women also found no evidence to support the allegations. After initially calling for action against Hari Padman by the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP), the National Commission for Women (NCW) later decided to close the case. The NCW issued a statement stating that after reviewing the Director’s clarification and the report submitted by the Internal Complaints Committee, no proof of sexual harassment was found on the premises of Kalakshetra. As a result, the Commission decided to close the matter since the victim denied experiencing any sexual harassment during the IC committee’s inquiry.

As per media report, in the case of sexual harassment allegations at Kalakshetra institution, the Director's clarification and the internal complaints committee report did not find any evidence of sexual harassment on campus. @sharmarekha

— NCW (@NCWIndia) March 25, 2023

Furthermore, the Kalakshetra director Revathi Ramachandran met with the DGP to submit the ICC’s findings. As per the state police chief’s statement, Kalakshetra conducted an internal inquiry through its committee and found the allegations to be “baseless.”

In a media statement, the Kalakshetra Foundation declared that a comprehensive investigation into allegations of sexual harassment made over social media determined that there were no such cases and that the allegations were unsubstantiated.

On 29 March 2023, NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma visited the campus to enquire about the harassment allegations.

So, the institute on its part has followed every due process in order to ensure a safe space for all. Yet, a few students have boycotted ongoing exams and have been sitting in protest demanding ouster of Haripadman.

The Other Side Of The Story

Inside sources from Kalakshetra who wished to remain unidentified note that most of the allegations of sexual harrasment and other types of harassment by the teacher Haripadman and other dancers/students are either completely fictional or small issues blown out of proportion.

Insiders say that the core issue is of three teachers namely – Nirmala Nagarajan, Nandini Nagarajan and Indhu Nideesh – who harbour professional rivalry against Haripadman. A majority of the students who are aware of the drama have refused to come out and have chosen to remain silent fearing reprisal from the other side.

“It’s not sexual harrasment but just plain professional rivalry by bitter teachers who are ready to sacrifice the institution of Kalakshetra to get their way”, notes a very close source from Kalakshetra.

The Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) committee has been very active and even has a Leftist lawyer who has herself stated there is no evidence in the complaints that have come in thus far. However, sources say that new allegations are being concocted actively by Nirmala Nagarajan et al., instigating students to protest demanding Haripadman be kicked out.

In a development that surfaced late Wednesday, 29 March 2023, screenshots of a complaint filed by a dancer of Kalakshetra with NCW, the Kalakshetra Board and the Ministry of Culture, surfaced on social media.

https://twitter.com/iamradioguru/status/1641146500703977472

In these screenshots three teachers have been named and accused of allegedly collecting evidence of harassment against the teacher in question (Hari Padman) and the institution itself.

Some instances mentioned in the complaint point to the fact that a female teacher may have harassed a male student. However, this has not been highlighted anywhere or taken up by the CARE Spaces organisation which has vociferously campaigned for the female students.

Another screenshot of the complaint in the same tweet thread indicates some displeasure in the steps taken by the present director in restarting a repertory.

Check these screenshots also! #Kalakshetra pic.twitter.com/wIIXRI1zQi

— Rajavel Nagarajan (@iamradioguru) March 29, 2023

In another set of screenshots that became public, the original ‘report’ by The News Minute seems to fall flat.

1st year WhatsApp grp-Kalakshetra. ICC member has asked them to secretly get evidence. The only ‘survivor’ dug up in 3 months is a known compulsive liar. The kids minds are poisoned, no respect 4 Haripadman NOT DUE TO ANY SEXUAL HARASSMENT but due 2 news from TNM (debunked/fake) pic.twitter.com/rbsheAv1Oa

— Nirākāra (@samsayagni) March 29, 2023

It was also noticed that an organisation named CARESpaces.org seemed to be toeing the agenda of peddling a certain narrative.

1. On 29 March 2023, a person who has been with Kalakshetra for 12 years wrote a complaint to the Secretary of Union Ministry of Culture coming in support of Haripadman and the institution.

The complaint says “I have known Haripadman sir for 12 years and I have never seen him make a single inappropriate remark to anyone. He is a strict teacher and he is not abusive. He is also very dedicated to dance and Kalakshetra. Haripadman sir only taught PD for two years and last year he only taught interns and repertory. So, the other students don’t know him.”

Like in the previous accounts, this complaint also blames Nirmala and Indhu for the unravelling episode saying that the two circulated rumours against Haripadman with a promise of removing probation concept if they protest against him.

“Nirmala teacher is the key person who has started all this.”, the complaint notes.

It also blames Nandini saying she blows up a routine matter like a teacher scolding a student into a sexual harassment issue.

“She has been leaking information to outsiders – activists and press – even before she takes it to the POSH committee. This damages the reputation and credibility of the institution of Kalakshetra.”, the complaint noted adding that Nirmala and Nandini are targeting people they want gone.

“Kindly consider this as a complaint from me and I request you to please order an investigation into the activities of Nirmala teacher, Nandini teacher and Indhu teacher. Please do not allow Kalakshetra to be destroyed.”

Students of #Kalakshetra fight back against false allegations on their teacher Haripadman and other students by woke freaks. Some teachers who hate the rise of Bahujan Haripadman want to finish him off. Don't fall for woke narratives. @NCWIndia @sharmarekha @kishanreddybjp pic.twitter.com/A1ZBh3Tow6

— Cynthia Khan (@TheCynthiaKhan) March 30, 2023

Attack On Haripadman? Attack On Kalakshetra? Or Attack On Guru-Shishya Parampara?

Whether dance or music, any art for that matter, requires strict disciplined life, and penance to master. This includes following a strict diet, routine, etc. Confusing discipline and rules for harassment is something that is commonly seen among the woke generation. Detaching bhakti and devotion from the arts has been a concerted attempt by leftists over the years and trying to make the sacrosanct nature of a gurukula and the guru-sishya relationship and everything within Sanatana Dharma seems to be the aim. If students are unable to follow these guidelines and rules, there are several other institutions available in the country that are even more “flexible” in this regard for them to choose from.

That being said, it is possible that a sadist or sexual predator may take undue advantage of Guru-Shishya Parampara. Such instances of abuse have to be dealt sternly following due process of law based on a comprehensive investigation.

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The post The Other Side Of The Kalakshetra Story: A JNU In The Making? appeared first on The Commune.