New Delhi, September 25 — Self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, director of a private management institute in Vasant Kunj, has been booked for allegedly sexually harassing multiple female students. The First Information Report (FIR) details a pattern of abuse, particularly targeting students from economically weaker sections (EWS), many of whom studied on scholarships.
The 62-year-old, who held positions as both chairman and chancellor, is accused of exploiting his authority to harass, intimidate, and manipulate students. Victims alleged that they were pressured to accompany him on international trips and to visit his room late at night.
The case surfaced after a former student’s letter, received by the institute on July 31, accused Chaitanyananda of harassment and molestation. On August 1, the institute received an email from an Indian Air Force officer stating that several women students had complained of harassment, giving further weight to the allegations.
Following this, the institute’s governing council held a virtual meeting with 30 women students on August 3. Several students came forward with detailed accounts of sexual harassment, blackmail, threats, and academic intimidation. The institute later compiled over 300 pages of evidence and lodged a formal complaint.
Police registered an FIR after recording the statements of 32 women students. The allegations included obscene messages, threats of failing grades, and withholding of original educational certificates, particularly from EWS students, to exert control.
In response, the institute revoked Chaitanyananda’s directorial powers, reconstituted its governing council, and ensured a Look-Out Circular was issued to prevent him from leaving the country. Meanwhile, Sri Sharada Peetham, the religious trust with which he was associated, distanced itself from him.
Authorities said searches are ongoing, and investigations are focused on uncovering the full extent of the abuse.
