Tata vs Mistry
MUMBAI
A simmering conflict within the Tata Trusts has intensified, with trustees Venu Srinivasan, Noel Tata, and Vijay Singh rejecting businessman Mehli Mistry’s renewal for life trusteeship, according to a report on Tuesday.
Mistry, a long-time associate of the Tata Group, is now reportedly considering legal action to challenge the decision, sources told NDTV Profit.
Noel Tata currently chairs the philanthropic body, while Vijay Singh and Venu Srinivasan serve as vice chairmen. The rejection of Mistry’s renewal has sparked discussions within the Trusts, especially in light of an October 24 resolution granting life tenure to existing trustees. The resolution stated that each trustee will be reappointed by the concerned Trust without any limit being attached to the period of tenure, reinforcing continuity within the organization.
However, the latest development suggests internal divisions have deepened over governance and succession issues. Tata Trusts, which holds about 66% of Tata Sons, has been grappling with internal disagreements regarding board appointments and strategic decision-making.
According to the report, two factions have emerged — one led by Noel Tata and another aligned with Mistry, who is known for his association with the Shapoorji Pallonji family. The rift reportedly surfaced during discussions over Vijay Singh’s reappointment to the Tata Sons Board, which was ultimately rejected.
Corporate governance experts warn the conflict could influence long-term strategic decisions at Tata Sons. On a day-to-day basis, Tata Sons is unlikely to be disrupted, but strategic decisions will be affected, said Shriram Subramanian, founder and managing director of InGovern.
Meanwhile, the market value of Tata Group companies has dropped by over ₹7 lakh crore — about 21% — in the past year, reflecting investor unease amid leadership transitions following the passing of the group’s patriarch.
