Delhi’s Vasant Kunj neighborhood is in the spotlight as police continue their search for Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Parthasarthy. The self-styled spiritual guru and director of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management faces serious allegations of sexual harassment, alongside the bizarre discovery of a fake United Nations diplomatic number plate on his luxury car.
Allegations of Sexual Harassment
The case surfaced in August 2025 after an administrator from Sri Sringeri Math lodged a formal complaint. Female students enrolled in the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) scholarship scheme reported harassment.
Police statements show that out of 32 students interviewed, 17 claimed abusive language, inappropriate messages on WhatsApp and SMS, and unwanted physical contact. Some students also alleged that certain faculty and administrative staff pressured them to comply with Saraswati’s demands.
The case was registered at the Vasant Kunj North Police Station, and investigators began a detailed probe. They reviewed CCTV footage from the institute, conducted raids at multiple locations linked to Saraswati, and sent hard disks and Network Video Recorders (NVRs) for forensic analysis. Statements from 16 victims have been recorded before a judicial magistrate.
Luxury Car with Fake UN Plates
During the investigation, authorities discovered Saraswati’s high-end Volvo parked in the institute’s basement. The car carried a forged diplomatic plate marked “39 UN 1,” falsely representing a United Nations vehicle. A separate FIR was registered for the fake number plate, and the car has been seized.
Officials suspect the plate may have been used to evade routine checks and create a false sense of authority. Investigators are examining if the vehicle was part of a broader scheme to mislead authorities.
Past Allegations and Current Status
This is not Saraswati’s first run-in with the law. Previous complaints include:
- A 2009 molestation and fraud case in Defence Colony
- A 2016 molestation complaint in Vasant Kunj
Authorities are reviewing these prior cases alongside the current investigation.
The Sri Sharada Peetham, Sringeri, has officially severed ties with Saraswati. They stated that his actions were “illegal, inappropriate, and detrimental” to their reputation.
The institute is now being managed by a Governing Council, ensuring student welfare and continuity of academic programs. Despite reviewing over 200 CCTV cameras and tracing Saraswati’s last known location near Agra, he remains absconding. Police continue their search with high urgency.
Implications and Next Steps
This case highlights critical concerns about the oversight of spiritual institutions and the safety of students. Authorities are urging any witnesses or individuals with information about Saraswati’s whereabouts to come forward.
The combination of sexual harassment allegations and the misuse of fake diplomatic plates has drawn nationwide attention, prompting calls for stricter regulations for self-styled gurus and private institutes.
FAQ – Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati Case
Q1: Who is Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati?
A1: He is the director of Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in Delhi and a self-styled spiritual guru.
Q2: What allegations is he facing?
A2: He faces sexual harassment and molestation allegations from 17 female students.
Q3: What is the fake UN plate issue?
A3: Police found his luxury Volvo car with a forged diplomatic plate “39 UN 1,” falsely claiming UN status.
Q4: Has he faced previous criminal cases?
A4: Yes, in 2009 and 2016, he faced separate molestation and fraud complaints.
Q5: Is he in custody?
A5: No, he is currently absconding, and police are actively searching for him.
Q6: What actions has the institute taken?
A6: Sri Sharada Peetham severed ties, and a Governing Council now manages the institute to ensure student safety.
Q7: How can the public help?
A7: Police urge anyone with information about Saraswati’s whereabouts to come forward immediately.
