Politics & Policy

Tata Trusts has appointed Supreme Court senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi to represent its interests in an escalating dispute with Tata Sons, following the holding company's board reappointment of N Chandrasekaran as chairman for a five-year term. X. The decision marks a significant escalation in the rift between the charitable trusts, which hold approximately 66% of Tata Sons, and the group's management. Singhvi emphasized that the fundamental rights of shareholder-owners cannot be nullified and criticized restrictions on the Trusts' ability to convene meetings or make democratic internal decisions. He cited the Supreme Court's judgment in the Tata-Mistry case, arguing it established primacy for Tata Trusts and upheld special provisions in Tata Sons' Articles of Association regarding fiduciary duties and voting unanimity. The conflict extends beyond leadership appointments to include disagreements over Tata Sons' potential public listing. While Tata Sons has initiated steps toward listing after the Reserve Bank of India declined its request to relinquish Core Investment Company registration, Tata Trusts has not agreed to this move and is seeking alternative options. Singhvi indicated that without collegiality, these issues may require legal resolution