Tata Trusts trusteeship issue: Mehli Mistry files caveat with Mumbai Charity Commissioner over changes

Mehli Mistry has filed a caveat with the office of the Charity Commissioner in Mumbai, seeking to be heard before any change is made in the list of trustees at Tata Trusts, sources told CNBC-TV18.

Mistry has referred to a communication dated October 17, 2024, which, according to him, requires that all trustees be re-appointed as permanent trustees upon the expiry of their current terms.

The move signals Mistry’s intent to ensure he is given an opportunity to present his position before any alteration in the Trusts’ governing body takes effect.

Under the Maharashtra Public Trusts Act, 1950, the Charity Commissioner serves as the regulatory authority overseeing the registration and administration of public charitable trusts in the state. As per the Act, Tata Trusts must inform the Charity Commissioner’s Office within 90 days of any change in trustees.

The office of the Charity Commissioner, being a quasi-judicial body, is likely to consider Mistry’s caveat and hear his representation once Tata Trusts communicates any change in its board of trustees, the sources added.

Mistry, a long-time associate of the Tata Group, is expected to be heard once Tata Trusts formally communicates any such change to the regulator.

Tata Trusts, which collectively hold a controlling stake in Tata Sons, play a pivotal role in the group’s governance structure.

The Tata Trusts board is set to meet on November 11, marking its first session since the exit of Mehli Mistry, whose tenure ended without a formal reappointment.

According to people familiar with developments, no official communication has been circulated to trustees regarding his departure. The meeting is expected to be a key test of internal cohesion and alignment within the trust as it moves forward under the leadership of Noel Tata, who recently took over as chairman.Read about our editorial guidelines and ethics policy