Police have launched a manhunt for Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati, director of an ashram in Delhi’s Vasant Kunj area and head of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, after more than 15 women accused him of sexual harassment, including sending obscene messages and inappropriate physical contact.
According to investigators, the self-styled spiritual leader, also known as Parthasarathi, went missing shortly after the first complaints were filed. His last known location was traced to Agra. Police have seized his Volvo car, which carried fake number plates, and intensified searches at his residence and other premises.
The allegations include sending sexually explicit WhatsApp and text messages, using vulgar language, and molestation. Police said statements from 32 women have already been recorded, with 17 of them accusing Chaitanyanand of direct harassment. CCTV footage is being analyzed, and investigators have recovered a hard disk and video recorder from his residence, both of which have been sent for forensic examination.
This is not the first time the controversial spiritual figure has faced criminal proceedings. In 2009, he was charged with embezzlement of funds and fraud. In 2016, a woman accused him of molestation, though the case did not move forward significantly. The fresh wave of complaints, police say, represents the most serious accusations yet.
The ashram administration distanced itself from him after the allegations surfaced. In a statement, its representatives said: “Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati, also known as Swami Parthasarathi, was involved in certain activities that were unlawful and inappropriate. For this reason, the Peeth has severed all connections with him and has also filed a complaint with the relevant authorities.”
Senior police officers confirmed that multiple teams have been formed to trace the accused. “We have registered a case and initiated a thorough investigation. Testimonies are being verified, and forensic evidence is being collected to strengthen the case,” one officer said.
Legal experts note that if the allegations are proven, Chaitanyanand could face charges under several sections of the Indian Penal Code related to sexual harassment, molestation, and use of obscene language, in addition to earlier financial fraud cases. Public outrage has been mounting as details of the case emerged, with women’s rights groups demanding swift action. “Such individuals misuse their spiritual authority to exploit young women. The law must take its course, and justice should not be delayed,” said a Delhi-based activist. As of Wednesday, Chaitanyanand remains absconding, and police said they are working with agencies in Uttar Pradesh and other states to track him down.
