Isha Foundation joins issue with Palanivel Thiagarajan

The Minister, in a recent interview to ‘The Hindu’, referred to Jaggi Vasudev as a “publicity hound”.

The Isha Foundation has joined issue with Tamil Nadu Finance Minister P.T.R. Palanivel Thiagarajan, who had assailed its founder Jaggi Vasudev for demanding that temples be freed from the control of the State Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department. In an open letter to the Minister issued by Isha Volunteers, Isha Foundation said they were “appalled that a man of his [Jaggi Vasudev] stature has been subject to the Minister’s unparliamentary and uncalled for personal attack , calling him a ‘publicity hound’, ‘charlatan’ and a ‘commercial operator’. It is deeply unfortunate that a person holding high public office should resort to name-calling of a highly respected public figure.This unseemly attack trivialises the efforts and dedication of millions of Isha volunteers worldwide who are working tirelessly in service of humanity.” The letter said: “In true democratic spirit, Sadhguru and Isha Foundation have worked with various elected governments from across the political spectrum and will continue to do so for the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu. Cooperation and support have been the nature of our relationship with every government. We regret the deterioration of this culture and the poor standard of public discourse. This is certainly unbecoming of an elected representative and an honorable member of the State’s Cabinet.