Self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, accused of sexually harassing at least 17 women at an ashram in Delhi, has been arrested from Agra. The 55-year-old, also known as Partha Sarathy, faces charges of molestation, sexual harassment, criminal intimidation, and insulting the modesty of women.
The arrest was made at around 3:30 a.m. last night from a hotel. He had been hiding in Agra for the past several days. He is currently being questioned and medically examined.
According to police, Saraswati targeted students from the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in Delhi’s posh Vasant Kunj area, where he posed as “director.” Several complainants mostly female students from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) category pursuing postgraduate management diplomas alleged that he used abusive language, sent obscene text messages, and forced physical contact.
Chilling FIR Details
The FIR details disturbing accounts of how the Baba lured students with promises of free foreign trips and scholarships, while secretly installing CCTV cameras inside the women’s hostel under the guise of “security.” Victims claimed they were summoned to his quarters late at night, often coerced by institute staff, including senior faculty members.
Shockingly, students alleged that during a Holi celebration, Saraswati ordered female students to line up, chant “Hari Om,” and allow him to apply colours on their cheeks and the parting of their hair. The instructions were reportedly conveyed by a woman teacher, leaving students with no choice but to comply.
After the scandal surfaced earlier this week, the Delhi unit of the ashram linked to the Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetham, Sringeri (Karnataka) expelled him from his post. The Peetham officially distanced itself, condemning his actions as “illegal and inappropriate.”
This is not Saraswati’s first brush with law. He has faced similar molestation complaints in 2009 and 2016, indicating a pattern of abuse spanning over a decade.
Police had earlier issued a lookout circular after he went absconding. With his arrest in Agra, investigators are now probing the role of staff members accused of helping him cover up the abuse and silencing victims.
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience covering Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes that every voice matters, and journalism has a vital role to play in amplifying those voices. Sofia is committed to creating impact and shedding light on stories that truly matter. Beyond her work in the newsroom, she is also a music enthusiast who enjoys singing.
