Several female students have accused Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati, also known as Parth Sarathi, of sexual exploitation in Delhi. Police have seized digital and physical evidence from the ashram. Statements from 164 victims have been recorded during the investigation.
NEW DELHI: Accusations of sexual exploitation have recently been leveled against Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati, also known as Parth Sarathi, by several female students in Delhi. This case has caused a stir in the capital, and Delhi Police have initiated a thorough investigation into his activities. Given the seriousness of the matter, police have begun scrutinizing the accused's entire background and records related to the ashram.
Who is Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati?
Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati, whose real name is Parth Sarathi, is originally from Odisha. He had been living in his ashram in Delhi for approximately 12 years. According to the police, the Swami has a long history of involvement in controversies. Previously, cases of molestation and fraud had been registered against him.
In 2009, cases of fraud and molestation were registered against him in Delhi's Defence Colony. Subsequently, in 2016, a student from Sharda Institute in Vasant Kunj also filed an FIR against him. Chaitanyanand was arrested in that case but was later granted bail.
Swami's Position in the Ashram
Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati served as the caretaker and operator of the ashram. In the ashram, he maintained contact with students, particularly girls. Delhi Police have so far recorded statements from 164 victims, including 17 girls whose statements have also been recorded in court.
Police stated that during the investigation, it was revealed that the Swami blackmailed and threatened girls. His influence within the ashram and the control he exerted over students have amplified the seriousness of the case.
Past Criminal History
Cases registered against the Swami in previous years highlight his identity and the seriousness of his activities within the ashram. In 2009, a case of fraud and molestation was registered against him in Delhi. In 2016, an FIR was filed by a student in Vasant Kunj.
Due to these cases, police have seized records and CCTV footage connected to his ashram. The examination of hard drives and other digital evidence is also ongoing.
Constantly Changing Location
During the investigation, it was discovered that Swami Chaitanyanand was constantly changing his location. He rarely uses a mobile phone, making it difficult to track him. His last known location was in the Agra region of Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, police are also investigating where he obtained UN number plates.
Delhi Police Action
After a complaint was registered against Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati, Delhi Police began gathering complete information about his background and previous cases. All digital and physical evidence related to the ashram has been seized.
According to the police's preliminary investigation, the Swami's ashram was used for the exploitation of students. Police are now also examining whether he engaged in similar activities at other locations.
