Former Tata Sons trustee Mehli Mistry has publicly stated his reasons for opposing the reappointment of Venu Srinivasan and Vijay Singh to the Tata Education and Development Trust (TEDT). Mistry’s decision prevented the unanimous vote required for their continuation on the board, leading to the conclusion of their tenures on May 10.
Tata Trusts CEO Siddharth Sharma confirmed that the resolution for reappointment failed due to a lack of unanimity. Mistry communicated his stance to Sharma, expressing regret over the decision but asserting he was “left with no other option.”
Mistry Cites Previous Proceedings for Opposition
Mistry explained that his reasons are detailed in an affidavit filed in response to a change report concerning the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT). He referenced specific proceedings that, according to him, were wrongfully used to vote against him in the past. Mistry alleged that Srinivasan participated in that prior vote without proper authority, as his tenure had already ended.
This current opposition by Mistry is part of a broader context, as he is also contesting his own removal from other Tata trusts. He had previously challenged the eligibility of both Venu Srinivasan and Vijay Singh's trusteeship in the Bai Hirabai Jamsetji Tata Navsari Charitable Institution (BHJTNCI).
Srinivasan Resigns from Another Trust
Following Mistry's earlier objection regarding the BHJTNCI, Venu Srinivasan submitted his resignation from that institution within 24 hours. However, Vijay Singh remained a trustee there.
The current outcome means that both Srinivasan and Singh will step down from the Tata Education and Development Trust as their terms expire, marking a significant development in the governance of Tata Trusts.