Applauding the Isha Foundation’s state-of-the-art gasifier crematoriums at its Coimbatore center, India’s Supreme Court on February 26 urged amicable settlement in an ongoing dispute. Labeling it a ‘sacred task,’ the CJI-led bench facilitated mediation to expedite closure.
The matter reached the apex court after Madras High Court dismissed a challenge from a landowner who had sold portions of his property to Isha. With approvals in place, the court saw merit in dialogue for the leftover land, gaining buy-in from both factions.
Directing retired Madras HC Judge Justice Rajendran to mediate, the decision prioritizes harmony over adversarial proceedings. Previously, the high court affirmed the facility’s panchayat sanction, pollution compliance, and societal value in promoting green cremations.
Responding to village-level demands, Isha built the infrastructure with full governmental oversight. Its network spans 30 sites since 2010, delivering clean, sustainable services in Chennai, Coimbatore, and beyond.
Complementing this, Isha’s December initiative with Tamil Nadu offers gratis cremations to BPL families, ensuring equitable access to respectful send-offs. As mediation unfolds, Isha’s model of blending spirituality, ecology, and service continues to inspire.