Pune: Bombay HC Upholds Joint Charity Commissioner’s Order, Dismisses Plea Regarding Sale of Prime Osho Trust Land

The Bombay High Court has upheld a decision rejecting the Osho International Foundation’s plea to sell prime land in Pune’s Koregaon Park, supporting the joint charity commissioner’s order. The OIF had sought permission to sell ashram land for Rs 107 crore, which was denied by the commissioner in December 2023. 

In its ruling, the court stated that the OIF failed to present a compelling case for the sale of the land. It directed the foundation to refund Rs 50 crore earnest money offered by potential buyers, emphasizing the lack of justification for the sale.

Additionally, the court upheld the commissioner’s order for a special audit of the OIF’s activities from 2005 to 2023. This decision aims to ensure transparency and accountability within the trust. 

The OIF had argued financial difficulties due to the Covid-19 pandemic as justification for the sale. However, the court found this reasoning insufficient, emphasizing the need for proper management of trust assets.

The trustees of the OIF are directed to deposit an amount of Rs 2,25,000 provisionally in the PTA. Fund to meet the cost thereof within 15 days from the date of this order. 

The trustees, managers, and r any other person looking after the accounts of OIF shall make available all the records and books of accounts, receipt books, vouchers, ledgers, etc to the special auditors, during the said period and shall co-operate the auditors in all respects. 

Swami Chaitanya Keerti, leading a faction opposing the sale, welcomed the court’s decision, expressing concerns about mismanagement within the OIF. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity within the ashram for Osho followers worldwide. 

The ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing dispute over the management and assets of the Osho International Foundation.