Is the Director of a Delhi Ashram Accused of Molesting Women?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The director of a Delhi ashram faces serious sexual harassment allegations.
- 17 female students have come forward with complaints against him.
- Authorities have seized a vehicle with a fake UN number plate linked to the accused.
- The suspect is currently absconding, and police are actively searching for him.
- This case highlights critical issues of safety in educational institutions.
New Delhi, Sep 24 (NationPress) The director of a prestigious ashram located in the affluent Vasant Kunj area of Delhi has been accused of sexually harassing numerous women students and is currently on the run, according to police reports from Wednesday.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Partha Sarathy, who leads the Sri Sharda Institute of Indian Management. He is under investigation for allegedly preying on students enrolled in post-graduate management diploma programs, specifically those from the economically weaker sections (EWS) who receive scholarships.
Investigators revealed that out of 32 female students who provided testimonies, at least 17 accused Chaitanyananda of sexual misconduct.
The complaints encompass claims of abusive language, lewd text messages, and instances of unwanted physical contact, according to the police.
The victims also reported that female faculty and administrative personnel pressured them to acquiesce to the accused's demands. Several students have stated that wardens at the ashram facilitated introductions to him, as per police statements.
Moreover, authorities disclosed that the accused was found operating a luxury Volvo vehicle displaying a fake United Nations number plate (39 UN 1).
Further investigations indicated that the plate was not issued by the UN but was instead fabricated by Chaitanyananda. The vehicle has since been confiscated.
A formal case of sexual harassment and other related charges has been filed against Swami Chaitanyananda, confirmed Amit Goyal, Deputy Commissioner of Police, South-West District.
He mentioned that the accused has been missing since the case was registered.
Police teams have analyzed CCTV footage and executed multiple raids at both the crime scene and the suspect's residence. However, Chaitanyananda remains elusive.
Ongoing investigations are underway, with more details expected shortly.