The Maharashtra Charity Commissioner has asked Tata Trusts to respond by October 12 to a complaint filed by trustee Venu Srinivasan alleging governance lapses at the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT). The regulator’s move sets a deadline for Tata Trusts to present its response before any further action is considered on the complaint.

The letter from the Charity Commissioner was sent on Monday, according to the report, less than two weeks after Srinivasan approached the regulator on September 24. In his communication, Srinivasan sought an inquiry into the administration and governance of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, raising concerns about the manner in which the trust’s affairs were being managed.

The complaint relates specifically to governance and administrative matters at SDTT, one of the charitable entities within the Tata Trusts structure. Srinivasan, who is a trustee, has sought regulatory scrutiny of the issues raised in his September 24 letter. The regulator’s decision to seek a response from Tata Trusts marks the next procedural step in examining the concerns.

Also Read: Vijay Singh Seeks Action Against SDTT Trustees If Charity Commissioner Inquiry Finds Grounds

Tata Trusts has now been given until October 12 to respond to the complaint. The response is expected to address the issues raised by Srinivasan and provide the trust’s position to the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner. The regulator will have to consider the complaint and the response before determining whether any further proceedings or action are warranted.

The development comes amid attention on governance within the Tata Trusts framework, with the complaint focusing on the administration of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust. At this stage, the allegations raised by Srinivasan remain matters for regulatory consideration, and the Charity Commissioner has not reached a final conclusion on the claims contained in the complaint.

The October 12 deadline therefore represents the immediate next step in the matter. Once Tata Trusts submits its response, the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner can assess the issues raised by Srinivasan alongside the trust’s explanation and decide on any further course of action. No additional action by the regulator has been indicated at this stage.

Also Read: Vijay Singh Seeks Action Against SDTT Trustees If Charity Commissioner Inquiry Finds Grounds