New Delhi: The Delhi Police have initiated proceedings against Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, the former chairman of the Shri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in Vasant Kunj. He faces charges related to the molestation and harassment of over 17 female students. Multiple current and former students have come forward with distressing accounts, alleging that Saraswati installed hidden cameras in the girls’ hostel. These cameras were allegedly used to monitor conversations and gather information about students’ personal lives, including their romantic relationships and shower routines. Survivors also reported being subjected to sexually explicit remarks.
Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Dr. Parthasarthy, has been evading authorities since August, when the initial complaint was filed. According to police, he is currently implicated in five First Information Reports (FIRs) that detail accusations of molestation, cheating, forgery, and fraud against his employer, the Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetham.
An FIR obtained by HT reveals that the Peetham launched an investigation into Saraswati in July concerning fraud allegations, which subsequently brought to light the charges of sexual misconduct. Following this, the Peetham received an email from a student from the 2023 batch detailing an instance of molestation by the chairman. A subsequent email from an Air Force group captain corroborated these complaints, citing additional similar allegations.
In response to the growing number of accusations, the Peetham council convened a virtual meeting on August 2, attended by 30 female students. During this meeting, students reportedly claimed that Saraswati and his associates had engaged in behavior that caused harassment and trauma, particularly affecting students from impoverished backgrounds.
The FIR documents detail claims that cameras were covertly installed in the hostel under the guise of security enhancements. Furthermore, it’s alleged that female students were coerced into accompanying Saraswati on foreign trips and were summoned to his private room at night. The FIR notes a “grave sense of fear” among the students, who have allegedly endured “various kinds of sexual atrocities.”
Two former students shared their experiences with HT, recounting instances of illegal surveillance, public humiliation, and repeated inappropriate sexual remarks. One student from the 2018 batch, hailing from Haryana, shared that she was publicly labeled “characterless” for having a boyfriend. She stated, “Swami used to ask girls about their shower routine. There were CCTVs near our rooms and bathrooms… He once asked me if I had sex with my boyfriend and whether I used condoms.” She also mentioned being denied her degree and was asked to pay ₹15,000 for the return of her original documents.
A graduate from the 2015 batch recalled an incident where a female student ran out of the chairman’s cabin in tears, her clothing torn. “Swami treated girls like slaves… He molested my friend, who dropped out. At least five girls left college during my time,” the graduate stated.
The student also alleged that Saraswati operated a printing press within the college premises, published books under his name through forgery, sublet two floors to private companies, and intimidated students who refused to comply with his demands for donations.
Southwest Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Amit Goel confirmed that Saraswati is currently a fugitive, reportedly altering his appearance and avoiding electronic devices to evade apprehension. “A Lookout Circular has been issued, and teams are actively tracing his movements,” Goel stated.
Investigators have also uncovered evidence suggesting that Saraswati not only exploited students but also misappropriated Peetham property for personal financial gain. The proceeds were allegedly used to purchase luxury vehicles, including a BMW, a Range Rover, and an XUV500. Authorities also suspect he manipulated the institute’s DVR system to erase CCTV evidence, while simultaneously retaining surveillance footage on his personal phone.
Recent police efforts have tracked Saraswati’s movements near Agra and Mumbai. On Thursday, authorities successfully seized a BMW registered in his name.