The Madras High Court, on Tuesday, dismissed a plea that challenged the awarding of the Padma Vibhushan to spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev. The bench, comprising Chief Justice KR Shriram and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy, concluded that the awarding process adhered to all prescribed norms and did not warrant any judicial intervention.
The petitioner had urged the court to revoke the award, citing ongoing legal cases and criminal allegations against Sadhguru and his organization. He argued that such controversies contravened the spirit of the Padma Vibhushan, which is awarded for “exceptional and distinguished service” to the nation. Key points raised included alleged unauthorized constructions by Sadhguru’s foundation and concerns about the treatment of volunteers being pushed towards monkhood.
However, Additional Solicitor General ARL Sundaresan, representing the Union government, defended the award’s conferment by highlighting a thorough vetting process, including intelligence checks, that preceded the granting of the award. Sundaresan stated that no adverse findings were reported against Vasudev at the time of his nomination, affirming the procedural integrity followed by the award committee.
The court reaffirmed that the selection process for Padma awards typically falls outside the scope of judicial review unless there is a glaring violation of the process or established norms. The bench also noted that the plea did not present sufficient grounds to question the legitimacy of the award to Sadhguru, thereby dismissing the case.
The Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, recognizes individuals who have rendered phenomenal service in various fields, including arts, education, industry, literature, science, sports, medicine, social service, and public affairs. This ruling not only underscores the judiciary’s respect for the executive’s prerogative in such matters but also stresses the importance of maintaining rigor in the nomination process to preserve the prestige of such national honors.
