Delhi Ashram Scandal: Swami Accused of Molestation, Staff Implicated

At least 17 female students have accused Swami Chaitanyananda of using abusive language and forcing physical contact

In a shocking revelation, the director of Sri Sringeri Math’s Delhi unit, Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, has been accused of molestation by students. According to the police, at least 17 women lodged molestation and harassment complaints against the Swami. Several support staff from the Ashram in Delhi’s Vasant Kunj area have also been included in the complaints.

The Crime As Described By The Police

The molestation in the Delhi Ashram has shocked the nation, as reports of the director harassing over a dozen women students surfaced. The complainants were pursuing Post-Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) courses on EWS scholarships at the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, where Chaitanyananda Saraswati served as director.

During the enquiry, statements of 32 women students were recorded, out of which 17 alleged abusive language, obscene WhatsApp and text messages, as well as unwanted physical contact by the accused. The students also claimed that some wardens working at the ashram had introduced them to the accused.

The victims also claimed that Chaitanyananda Saraswati blackmailed and threatened them. Further investigation revealed that three women faculty and administrators abetted and pressured them to comply with the accused’s demands.

Following a large number of complaints, police have started an investigation and further revealed his last known location in Agra.

Meanwhile, CCTV footage has been checked, and multiple raids were conducted at the place of the incident as well as at the premises of the accused person.

During the investigation, police have seized hard disks and a video recorder, which have been sent for forensic analysis. A Volvo car with a fake UN number plate was also found parked in the basement of Sri Sharda Institute of Indian Management. On verification, it was found that the car was used by the suspect. Another probe is underway to check how he obtained the diplomatic number plate.

“Based on their statements, the police filed the case for sexual harassment and other charges against Swami Chaitanyananda,” said Amit Goyal, Deputy Commissioner of Police, South-West District.

Steps by the Organisation

The Sri Sringeri Math administration has removed Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati from his post as director.

In a statement following the allegations, the ashram said, "Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, formerly known as Swami Parthasarathy, has engaged in activities that are illegal, inappropriate... As a result, the Peeth has severed all ties with him... (It) has also lodged complaints with the relevant authorities regarding illegal acts committed by Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati."

Police Investigation Reveals Shocking Past of Swami

The Delhi unit of the Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetha, Sringeri, functioned in two batches, each with over 35 students.

Originally from Odisha, Chaitanyananda Saraswati has been living in the Delhi ashram for the last 12 years. The absconding Swami has served as both the operator and caretaker there.

Formerly known as Swami Parthasarathy, the accused has a long record of criminal charges. As per police reports, a case of fraud and molestation was filed in Defence Colony against Chaitanyananda in 2009. One woman lodged a molestation complaint against him at the Vasant Kunj police station in 2016.