Mehli Mistry has resigned as trustee from three major Tata Trusts, namely, the Sir Ratan Tata Trust, the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, and the Bai Hirabai J.N. Tata Navsari Charitable Institution Trust, with effect from October 28.
In his farewell letter to the board, Mistry described it as a “privilege” to have served the Trusts, a role he said was personally endorsed by Ratan N. Tata, whom he called “a dear friend and mentor.” He said his decision stemmed from a deep commitment to Tata’s values and his belief that no individual should overshadow the institution they serve.
“All of us must remember that nobody is bigger than the institution,” Mistry wrote, urging trustees to remain guided by transparency, good governance, and public interest. He added that he wished to avoid any action that could harm the century-old philanthropic legacy of the Tata Trusts.
His exit comes amid internal differences within the Trusts’ leadership over governance and reappointments. Mistry, who had recently filed a caveat with the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner seeking a hearing before any changes in trusteeship, said his move was intended to safeguard the reputation and integrity of the organisation.
The Tata Trusts, among India’s largest charitable entities, play a vital role in directing the philanthropic vision of the Tata Group, holding a majority stake in Tata Sons, the group’s principal investment company.
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