Delhi’s spiritual and academic community has been shaken by allegations against Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati (also known as Dr. Parthasarathy). Multiple students from a management institute in Vasant Kunj, South West Delhi have accused him of sexual harassment and misconduct.
According to police and media reports, complaints describe a pattern of inappropriate messages, coercive offers, and unwanted physical contact, raising serious concerns about student safety and institutional accountability.
Allegations and Complaints
- Over a dozen female students have filed complaints at Vasant Kunj North Police Station.
- Media reports (Times of India, Moneycontrol) mention 17 complainants specifically accusing Saraswati of harassment.
- Allegations include:
- Sending lewd WhatsApp and SMS messages
- Promises like “I’ll take you abroad” or offers of paid trips
- Threats such as “I’ll fail you if you don’t listen to me”
- Unwanted touching and physical harassment
- Claims that some staff pressured students to comply
Police have reportedly collected digital evidence, including chats, phone records, and CCTV footage.
Police Investigation
- Authorities seized a red Volvo car from Saraswati, allegedly bearing a fake diplomatic/UN-style plate (39 UN 1).
- Raids have been conducted at the Vasant Kunj institute and ashram premises.
- Saraswati is currently absconding; special teams are searching across Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and other states.
- A Look-Out Notice has been issued against him.
Official Response from Sringeri Sharada Peetham
The Sri Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya Mahasamsthanam Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetham, Sringeri issued an official statement on 9 August 2025:
“Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati has engaged in activities that are illegal, inappropriate, and detrimental to the interests of the Peetham. As a result, the Peetham has severed all ties with him.”
The Peetham confirmed that it has also lodged complaints with authorities. It clarified that the AICTE-approved Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management-Research will now be run by a Governing Council chaired by Dr. Krishna Venkatesh, ensuring the welfare of students and smooth continuation of academic programs.
Wider Implications
This case highlights:
- The vulnerability of students in institutions where spiritual authority overlaps with academic management.
- The need for stronger oversight and complaint mechanisms in private and religious-affiliated institutes.
- Importance of institutional accountability, especially in cases involving EWS (economically weaker section) scholarship students, who may be more vulnerable to coercion.
Current Status
- The investigation is ongoing; no court verdict has been reached yet.
- Saraswati remains untraceable.
- Authorities are continuing forensic analysis and nationwide searches.
