Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Parth Sarthy, has been booked by the Delhi police following serious allegations of sexual harassment from multiple female students at a management institute. The self-styled godman is currently evading arrest despite ongoing police efforts, including raids and surveillance operations.
The complaints were filed on August 4 at the Vasant Kunj North Police Station. At least 17 female students have accused Saraswati of using abusive language, sending obscene messages, and making unwanted sexual advances. Reports indicate that some faculty members also pressured students to comply with his demands.
Saraswati was a member of the management committee at the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, where he had been associated for about 12 years. During the investigation, statements from 32 female students under the EWS scholarship were recorded, with 16 victims later providing testimony before a magistrate.
A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Authorities have also seized a Volvo car found in the institute's basement, which was reportedly used by Saraswati and bore a forged diplomatic number plate.
The National Commission for Women has taken cognizance of the case, demanding a detailed report within three days. The commission noted that the allegations involve serious misconduct, including the use of obscene language and lewd messages.
In a statement, the Sri Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya Mahasamsthanam Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetham, with which Saraswati was previously associated, distanced itself from him, stating that he engaged in illegal and inappropriate activities. The Peetham has lodged complaints with the relevant authorities regarding his actions.
Police are actively pursuing leads to locate Saraswati, with multiple teams formed to track him down. They are also monitoring airports to prevent him from fleeing the country. Investigators are cross-verifying statements from students and faculty while collecting digital evidence related to the case. The situation remains under close scrutiny as authorities work to ensure justice for the victims.