Mehli Mistry challenges trustee removal, questions Noel Tata’s citizenship

Mehli Mistry has filed a rejoinder before the Deputy Charity Commissioner, Greater Mumbai Region, challenging his removal as a trustee of the Bai Hirabai Jamsetji Tata Navsari Charitable Institution and the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust. He argues that neither the original will nor the trust deed prescribes a fixed tenure for trustees, and that his appointment did not automatically end after three years.

Mistry has also questioned the eligibility of trustees, including Noel Tata's Irish citizenship and UAE Golden Visa status, and has sought an affidavit from Tata clarifying these facts. He contends that Tata Trusts cannot demand scrutiny of his residency while exempting its own trustees. The dispute also involves Venu Srinivasan's vote on Mistry's reappointment, which Mistry argues was invalid as Srinivasan's tenure had already ended.

Mistry has sought an independent inquiry into the administration of Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, alleging conflicts of interest and irregularities in trust investments. The matter is scheduled to be heard by the Charity Commissioner of Maharashtra on December 3.