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MLA Vanathi Srinivasan Accuses Critics of Defaming Isha Yoga Center Due to Its Popularity

SimpliCity News Team File Photo · 06 Oct 2024

Coimbatore: Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan has come out in strong defense of the Isha Yoga Center, accusing its critics of spreading defamatory information due to the center's immense popularity. In a statement released on October 6, Srinivasan emphasized that renunciation is an integral part of Hinduism and a personal decision.

The MLA's comments come in the wake of recent events involving the Isha Yoga Center. The Madras High Court, while hearing a case filed by Professor Kamaraj seeking to rescue his two daughters who are ascetics at the center, ordered an investigation into pending cases against Isha. Subsequently, a large number of police personnel, led by the Coimbatore District Superintendent of Police, conducted a search at the Isha premises.

Srinivasan pointed out that Isha Yoga Center has filed a complaint with the Supreme Court regarding this alleged overreach by the police, which she referred to as an intrusion by the DMK government. The Supreme Court, led by the Chief Justice, conducted a video conference hearing with the two women ascetics, who stated they were not coerced and had chosen the ascetic life of their own free will.

The MLA highlighted the significance of Isha Yoga Center, stating it has become a prominent spiritual center not just in Coimbatore and Tamil Nadu, but globally. She praised Sadhguru, the founder, as a spiritual leader attracting millions of followers. Srinivasan also mentioned Isha's involvement in various service activities including education, healthcare, and environmental protection.

Addressing the allegations of encroachment on elephant corridors, Srinivasan stated that no court has ruled against Isha in this matter. She criticized the state government for not officially demarcating any elephant corridor in Coimbatore district, questioning how accusations of violation could be made without an official demarcation.

Srinivasan accused Hindu opponents and separatists of being disturbed by Isha's popularity and attempting to tarnish its reputation at every opportunity. She contrasted this with the government's inaction on complaints against other religious institutions, particularly regarding religious conversions.

The MLA concluded by reflecting on societal attitudes towards renunciation, noting that while most parents aspire for their children to marry and have families, there's a reluctance to accept when someone from one's own family chooses the path of renunciation.

isha yoga center vanathi srinivasan controversy spirituality hinduism asceticism legal issues dmk government

MLA Vanathi Srinivasan Accuses Critics of Defaming Isha Yoga Center Due to Its Popularity

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