In Brief
A Hindu man holding a US Green Card sought recognition as founder trustee of a charitable trust under its 1936 Scheme of Administration. The Trust denied his claim, arguing he failed to meet the residence requirement in Madras Presidency. The Trial Court found him qualified based on his Aadhaar Card, Indian Passport, property ownership, and Indian tax status. The High Court reversed this, emphasizing literal interpretation and counting days spent in India. The Supreme Court restored the Trial Court's judgment, holding that 'residence' must be interpreted contextually with contemporary meaning, not literally. Strong ties to India (property, bank accounts, tax assessment) and intent to reside suffice; Green Card holding alone does not disqualify. As sole surviving male descendant, he is entitled to the trusteeship position."
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