New Delhi: Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Dr Parthasarthy, is facing grave allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and financial fraud during his tenure as head of Shri Sharada Institute of Indian Management (ShriSIIM) in Vasant Kunj. Survivors and police investigations reveal a disturbing pattern of abuse involving hidden cameras, late-night summons, coercion, and academic blackmail.
Hidden cameras and surveillance
According to the FIR, Chaitanyananda allegedly planted CCTV cameras around the girls’ hostel, including near bathrooms, under the guise of “security.” Victims claimed he monitored the footage on his phone and later interrogated them about their shower routines and personal lives.
One student said, “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.”
Sexual remarks and obscene questioning
Several students accused him of inappropriate questioning about their relationships. Some revealed receiving WhatsApp messages at night with phrases such as “Baby, I love you” and “I adore you.” Many were subjected to humiliation in front of peers, with some being labelled “characterless” for having boyfriends.
Ritualised harassment during festivals
Students also spoke of harassment during cultural occasions. On Holi, women were allegedly forced to stand in line and allow Chaitanyananda to smear colour on their hair partings and cheeks before anyone else could apply colour. Faculty reportedly instructed them to comply.
Coercion and forced trips
Multiple survivors said they were summoned to his private quarters late at night. Some were pressured into travelling with him on domestic and foreign trips. One complainant described narrowly escaping a forced journey to Mathura.
Academic blackmail and extortion
Students who resisted were allegedly punished through manipulated attendance, lower marks, or delayed degrees. A woman was reportedly asked to pay ₹15,000 to retrieve her original documents. In one incident, a student described witnessing a woman leaving his office in tears with her clothes torn.
Complicity of staff
The FIR also names three female staff members, including the associate dean, who allegedly facilitated the abuse. They reportedly pressured students to comply, forced them to delete incriminating evidence, and even compelled one to change her name.
Financial irregularities and fraud
Investigators seized a BMW worth ₹1.5 crore and a Volvo carrying a fake diplomatic plate (“39 UN 1”), which were allegedly used to transport students to Rishikesh under the pretext of industrial visits. Police also allege that Chaitanyananda forged academic books, ran a printing press within the institute, leased institute floors to private companies, and diverted funds to purchase luxury vehicles.
Intimidation and control
Accounts describe illegal surveillance, confiscation of phones, and isolation of students within the hostel. Victims say they were threatened with dire consequences, with the accused claiming powerful political and bureaucratic connections.
Police investigation and manhunt
Police have confirmed that Chaitanyananda, now in his 60s, has been evading arrest since August. He is said to frequently change disguises and avoid using electronic devices to remain untraceable. Authorities have issued a lookout circular, with his last known movement traced near Mumbai.
Conclusion
The revelations against Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati have shaken both academic and spiritual circles, exposing a grim reality of power abuse disguised as mentorship. With over 17 women stepping forward, investigators continue to gather evidence as the manhunt intensifies. Survivors remain determined to pursue justice despite the threats and trauma they have faced.