Mehli Mistry Seeks Independent Administrator For Sir Dorabji Tata Trust

Mehli Mistry, who resigned as a trustee of the Tata Trusts in November after the board refused to extend his tenure, has requested the appointment of an independent administrator to manage the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust. He has also clarified that he does not wish to be reinstated as a trustee.

Main Issues Raised

In a submission to the Charity Commissioner in Mumbai, Mistry has pointed to alleged irregularities in the Trust’s administration. He has questioned the functioning of the current board, led by Noel Tata as chairman and Venu Srinivasan as vice-chairman, along with other trustees including Vijay Singh, Darius Khambatta, Bhaskar Bhat and Neville Tata.

Mistry has challenged the Change Report filed after his departure and the induction of new trustees. He has argued that the refusal to renew his term contradicts a 2024 resolution that permitted reciprocal reappointments among trustees of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Sir Ratan Tata Trust.

Mehli Mistry has further asserted that the board responsible for his removal lacked legal standing, claiming that certain appointments breach provisions of the Maharashtra Public Trusts Act, especially amendments introduced in 2025 that impose limits on trustee tenure.

Pointing to what he describes as weakened governance, Mistry has accused some trustees of actions that may violate fiduciary obligations. He has alleged that Vijay Singh received significant financial benefits, including commissions and fees from Tata Group entities, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

Mehli Mistry has also highlighted issues involving Venu Srinivasan, suggesting that certain decisions and engagements could conflict with his responsibilities as a trustee and nominee director, and has called for greater transparency on these matters.

Stressing the need for improved oversight, Mistry has urged authorities to install an independent administrator to supervise the Trust’s operations. He has maintained that such intervention is essential to restore lawful governance and ensure that the Trust adheres to its foundational principles and fiduciary duties.

Also Read: Mehli Mistry Challenges Trustees At Sir Dorabji Tata Trust; Flags Governance Issues