Noel Tata has opposed the Tata Sons board decision to reappoint N Chandrasekaran as executive chairman for a third five‑year term beginning February 2027. The board passed the resolution on September 17 with four votes in favour and one against. Noel Tata cast the lone dissenting vote. Tata Trusts, which holds 66% in Tata Sons, is preparing to challenge the resolution in the Supreme Court. The Trusts argue that the decision violates Articles of Association and ignores veto rights of nominee directors.
Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi has joined the dispute, stressing that shareholder rights cannot be curtailed. He described blocking Tata Trusts meetings as patent illegality and warned that undermining shareholder powers would damage corporate governance. Singhvi highlighted the historic link between Tata Trusts and Tata Sons, noting that unanimity in Trust voting has been a long‑standing principle.
Both sides have sought legal opinions. Tata Trusts consulted former Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud while Tata Sons relied on Sudipto Sarkar and B N Srikrishna. Interpretations of Articles of Association differ sharply.
The case could reshape governance within the Tata group. A Supreme Court challenge may delay or complicate Chandrasekaran’s reappointment. The dispute underscores continuing tensions between Tata Trusts and the Tata Sons board.