Delhi Baba Faces Multiple Allegations of Sexual Harassment

Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, widely known as Partha Sarathy or “Delhi Baba,” is under investigation for multiple allegations of sexual harassment and molestation. Seventeen female students from the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in Vasant Kunj, Delhi, have accused him of sending inappropriate texts, using abusive language, and making unwanted physical contact. These allegations have surfaced as the students, who were enrolled in postgraduate management diploma courses under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) scholarship, claim that they were specifically targeted by the self-styled spiritual leader.

In response to the accusations, the institute, which is affiliated with the Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetha in Sringeri, has distanced itself from Swami Chaitanyananda, describing his actions as “illegal, inappropriate, and detrimental” to the institution’s values. The accusations have led to his removal from any official role within the institute and his expulsion.

As of now, the police are actively pursuing the accused, who is currently evading capture. Authorities are conducting raids and surveillance operations to locate him, with his last known whereabouts reported to be near Agra. The Delhi Police have formally registered a case against him and are investigating the claims made by the students. So far, they have recorded statements from 32 female students, with 17 alleging harassment.

In a troubling twist, a Volvo car displaying fake diplomatic number plates (39 UN 1) was discovered in the institute’s basement, which the accused is thought to have utilized. The vehicle has been confiscated, and police are now verifying the legitimacy of the plates.

Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati has been residing at the Vasant Kunj ashram for the past 12 years. This current controversy is not an isolated incident; he has faced two previous molestation cases filed in 2009 and 2016, yet there appears to have been no substantial action taken against him by the ashram during that time.

The unfolding situation highlights serious issues regarding accountability and the protection of students within educational institutions. As the investigation continues, many are calling for increased measures to safeguard students from harassment, particularly in environments where power dynamics can become exploitative. The Delhi Police are urging any additional victims to come forward as they work to address these grave allegations.