N. Chandrasekaran’s exit illustrates how professionals and family businesses make for uneasy bed fellows in India
Natarajan Chandrasekaran’s exit as Tata Sons chairman underscores the enduring supremacy of family control over professional management. Despite his successful tenure, the Tata trusts withheld endorsement, continuing a historical pattern where family interests supersede even seasoned executives. This dominance, evident in previous leadership changes and the removal of independent directors, raises significant governance concerns. The author highlights the substantial cost to shareholders, evidenced by stock drops and stalled decision-making, and questions the Tata Sons board's effectiveness. The article critically assesses the group's governance structure, emphasizing how professional managers ultimately remain subject to family vetoes.
LiveMint · Sundeep Khanna · Aug 13, 2026 at 3:31 AM