New Delhi: Delhi Police have registered a case against self-styled godman Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Parth Sarthy, after several women students of a management institute in Vasant Kunj accused him of sexual harassment.
The complaint was lodged on August 4 at Vasant Kunj North police station. According to police, statements of 32 students were recorded, of which 17 girls alleged harassment ranging from obscene messages to inappropriate physical contact. Sixteen of them later gave their statements before a magistrate.
Students told investigators that the accused often used vulgar language, sent lewd texts, and tried to touch them inappropriately. Some also alleged that staff members of the institute pressured them to meet his demands.
During the probe, police also found a red Volvo car with a fake diplomatic/UN number plate in the institute’s basement. A separate case was filed on August 25 in connection with the vehicle.
The godman, who served as the director of the institute run under the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, is currently absconding. Multiple raids have been carried out but he has not been traced yet.
Meanwhile, the Sri Sharada Peetham at Sringeri, a prominent religious body, issued a statement distancing itself from the accused. It said that Chaitanyananda Saraswati is no longer associated with the Peetham or its institutions.
The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) dealing with sexual harassment, assault, and use of abusive language.
Police officials said efforts are underway to arrest the accused and ensure the safety of the students.
