Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati Arrested In Delhi
Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Partha Sarathy, was arrested from Agra after hiding for several days. He faced serious allegations of sexual harassment, forgery, and conspiracy. Delhi Police confirmed his arrest on Sunday. The self-styled godman had been absconding since police filed the case earlier this week. On Monday, a Delhi court sent him to five-day police custody to allow investigators to question him thoroughly.
Sexual Harassment Allegations Involving 17 Female Students and Abuse of Position
Chaitanyananda, 62, served as the director of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management. The institute is linked to the Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetha in Sringeri. After 17 female students accused him of sexual harassment, the ashram removed him from his post.
Investigators found Saraswati had direct access to CCTV feeds in the women’s hostel. This included cameras near washrooms, which he allegedly monitored via his phone. He also misused a BMW worth ₹1.5 crore to take female students on trips, claiming they were “industrial visits.” Police seized the car from the institute’s basement. They believe the dashcam may hold crucial evidence.
Rumors suggested he turned his office into a torture chamber. However, police found no proof supporting this claim during their investigation.
Frozen Funds, Fake Passports, and Criminal Charges
Delhi Police froze nearly ₹8 crore linked to Saraswati. The money spread across 18 bank accounts and 28 fixed deposits. Authorities suspect the funds came from manipulated donations to a trust Saraswati controlled. Police also discovered two passports under different names, indicating possible identity fraud.
Saraswati faces several charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
- Section 75(2) – sexual harassment
- Section 79 – acts intended to insult a woman’s modesty
- Section 351(2) – criminal intimidation
Potential Punishment for Sexual Harassment Charges
Indian law under Section 354A of the Indian Penal Code punishes sexual harassment with imprisonment ranging from three months to five years, plus fines. Since 17 victims have accused Saraswati, courts may impose stricter punishments. Multiple accusations and abuse of authority often lead to heavier sentences.
If evidence surfaces of more serious crimes like sexual assault or rape, Saraswati could face longer jail terms. Sections 376 and related laws carry sentences from seven years up to life imprisonment. Additional charges like forgery and criminal intimidation may increase his punishment.
Although sexual harassment carries a minimum sentence of three months, the volume of accusations in this case could lead to severe penalties. The investigation and trial will determine the final outcome.
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