N. Chandrasekaran Steps Down as Tata Sons Chairman Amidst Trust Disputes

N. Chandrasekaran has resigned from his position as chairman of Tata Sons, concluding a tenure that began in 2017. The 63-year-old executive will remain in his role until his term officially ends in February 2027. Chandrasekaran's decision follows reported disagreements within Tata Trusts, the majority owner of Tata Sons, concerning the group's business performance and capital requirements for its newer ventures.

The Tata Group experienced substantial growth under Chandrasekaran's leadership. The conglomerate's aggregate revenue increased from Rs 7.89 lakh crore in FY20 to Rs 16.24 lakh crore in FY26, with profit after tax rising more than fivefold. Market capitalization of its listed entities also saw a significant increase during this period. The group expanded into sectors such as airlines, semiconductors, electronics, and batteries, notably reacquiring Air India and increasing focus on digital businesses and electric vehicles.

Chandrasekaran's departure comes at a time of leadership transition for Tata Sons, preceding the group's annual general meeting. Discussions regarding his reappointment had been deferred in February after Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata expressed reservations about the performance of new businesses and proposed a shorter executive term aligning with the group's retirement age. Previously, trustees had unanimously supported a five-year reappointment. The situation also involves an inquiry by the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner affecting the voting rights of certain Tata Trusts trustees, including Noel Tata, Darius Khambata, and Jehangir Jehangir, regarding their participation in the upcoming meeting.