Tata Trusts Row Deepens as Neville Tata and Bhaskar Bhat’s Induction Hits an Unexpected Roadblock
Some boardroom stories feel like slow-burn films. This one moved fast, turned messy, and revealed far more than the agenda on paper.
Inside the closely guarded corridors of Tata Trusts, an unexpected disagreement has reportedly stalled the induction of Neville Tata and veteran executive Bhaskar Bhat into the Sir Ratan Tata Trust (SRTT). And for a group known for its discretion, this tussle says a lot.
Let’s break down what went wrong, who opposed what, and why this moment could shape the next decade of Tata leadership.
Quick Context: What Triggered the Clash
At a Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT) meeting in Mumbai, trustees approved the induction of Neville Tata and Bhaskar Bhat.
But when the proposal moved to the SRTT board — it suddenly hit a wall.
Here’s the situation at a glance.
Key Details at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Inductees | Neville Tata, Bhaskar Bhat |
| Approved By | SDTT Board |
| Stalled By | SRTT Board (due to agenda objection) |
| Key Objection | Venu Srinivasan said induction was “not on agenda” |
| Current Status | SDTT appointed both, SRTT deferred decision |
| Why It Matters | SRTT and SDTT together hold 51%+ stake in Tata Sons |
What Actually Happened Inside the Trust Meetings
1. The SDTT Meeting: Swift Approval, Strategic Moves
The spark began at the SDTT meeting where:
- Lawyer Darius Khambata proposed Neville Tata
- Former defence secretary Vijay Singh recommended Bhaskar Bhat
Noel Tata recused himself from voting on his son’s induction, as expected.
And according to participants, Khambata stressed that Ratan Tata had long hoped to see Neville join the Trust during his lifetime — a line that reportedly struck a chord.
All present trustees approved the move.
There was one more development:
Venu Srinivasan’s permanent trustee status was revised to a three-year term due to a new Maharashtra ordinance restricting lifetime trustees. He was then reappointed for another three-year tenure.
Smooth so far.
2. The SRTT Meeting: The Roadblock Appears
The twist came during the SRTT meeting — attended by Noel Tata, Srinivasan, Jehangir HC Jehangir, and Khambata.
When the discussion turned to inducting Neville Tata and Bhaskar Bhat into SRTT as well, sources say Srinivasan was “surprised”.
His reason:
The matter wasn’t on the official agenda.
He declined to approve the resolution.
And Tata Trusts require unanimous approval for induction or removal of trustees.
Just like that, the proposal froze.
The Trust later said the inductions would be considered again “at a later date”.
Where the Power Lines Really Run
SRTT and SDTT together hold the lion’s share of Tata Sons:
- SDTT – 27.98%
- SRTT – 23.56%
- Other trusts – 14.4%
Total philanthropic control: 65.9%
Any shift in trustee composition matters because these Trusts ultimately influence leadership, strategy, and continuity in Tata Sons — one of India’s most influential conglomerates.
This moment isn’t just about two inductions. It’s about the next chapter of decision-making power.
The Rise of Neville Tata: The Next Gen Face of the Family
If there’s one name that’s been quietly rising within the group, it’s Neville Tata — and his arc says a lot about why his induction matters.
- Joined Trent in 2016
- Led food & beverages, then took over Zudio
- Under his watch, Zudio exploded into a fashion powerhouse
- Became non-executive director at Trent Hypermarket
- Took charge of Star Bazaar in 2024
People who’ve worked with him describe him as analytical, grounded, and thoughtful — a leader shaped more by experience than surname.
Industry insiders believe his entry into the Trust board is a natural next step in grooming the next generation.
Bhaskar Bhat: A Veteran With Deep Tata Roots
Few executives are as respected as Bhaskar Bhat, who:
- Served as managing director of Titan
- Led Titan’s diversification into jewellery, eyewear, fragrances
- Built the company into one of India’s most loved brands
His induction strengthens the Trust’s strategic and operational depth.
Why the Roadblock Matters
This disagreement isn’t a crisis, but it is a signal:
Tata Trusts are entering a transition phase where generational shifts meet administrative reforms.
From board reshuffles to new state regulations on trustee tenures, every move carries long-term impact.
For now, SDTT has inducted Neville and Bhat.
SRTT has pressed pause.
But looking at the group’s disciplined history, a resolution seems inevitable — just not immediate.
Samay’s Voice
Leadership transitions can be delayed, but they can rarely be denied. Neville Tata’s moment looks more postponed than paused.
