Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Congress party, has accused the BJP-led government of treating Indian businesses as mere “playthings.” His comments came in the context of a growing dispute regarding the reappointment of N Chandrasekaran as Executive Chairman of Tata Sons. Gandhi expressed concern over the silence of business leaders, suggesting that they are intimidated and unwilling to speak out against the government.

In a post shared on X, Gandhi stated, “Tata is being criminally destroyed, and no business leader dares say a word. How long will you stay silent? Until they own you?” He emphasised that Indian businesses should not be at the mercy of political influences and asserted his commitment to ensuring justice for what he termed “crimes” against the Tata Group.

Dispute Over Chandrasekaran’s Reappointment

The controversy surrounding Chandrasekaran’s reappointment has intensified, particularly with objections raised by Noel Tata, Chairman of Tata Trusts. He has questioned the legitimacy of the resolution that approved Chandrasekaran’s continuation in the role. In a letter dated October 26 addressed to Suprakash Mukhopadhyay, the Company Secretary of Tata Sons, Noel Tata highlighted several procedural irregularities related to the board meeting held on September 17.

Noel Tata pointed out that the agenda circulated to the directors did not specifically mention the reappointment of Chandrasekaran. He also alleged that the company failed to provide him with essential documentation, including audio and video recordings of the meeting, despite his repeated requests. He contended that these materials are crucial for understanding the proceedings and validating the resolution.

Furthermore, Noel Tata claimed that the resolution was invalid due to non-compliance with the Articles of Association of Tata Sons. He stated that there was no Selection Committee constituted as required under Article 118 and that the necessary affirmative votes from directors appointed under Article 104B had not been obtained. His letter also raised concerns about the conditions attached to the vote not being fulfilled.

Call for Transparency and Documentation

Noel Tata has demanded a series of documents and clarifications from Tata Sons within a week. These requests include the audio and video recordings of the meeting, final or revised minutes, details of the voting process, and various versions of the agenda. He has also asked for confirmation that the resolution’s validity is disputed by a director nominated under Article 104B and by the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust.

In his correspondence, Noel Tata expressed frustration over the treatment of the resolution as final while the records of the meeting remain contested. He described the recordings as the “only neutral record” of the proceedings and noted that the company had not shared these despite multiple written requests. He also questioned the premature circulation of a certified copy of the resolution and its reported filing with the Registrar of Companies before the official minutes were finalised.

He concluded his letter by stating that it is unacceptable for him, as a Director of the Company, to be denied access to a certified true copy of the resolution. He insisted that no further actions be taken regarding the resolution until the meeting records are thoroughly reviewed and settled.

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