New Delhi: Delhi Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Chaitanyananda Saraswati following allegations of sexual harassment. The case was registered at the Vasant Kunj North Police Station based on a formal complaint detailing multiple instances of alleged misconduct.
According to the FIR, Chaitanyananda Saraswati has been accused of engaging in repeated acts of sexual harassment. The complaint notes that Sri Sharada Peetham in Sringeri, with which he was formerly associated, revoked the Powers of Attorney granted to him in 2008 and has since completely severed ties.
“Further, the Peetham has severed all ties with Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati,” an excerpt from the FIR states.
The complaint refers to communications received by the Peetham on July 28 and August 1, 2025, from a student and a serving Air Force officer, both raising serious allegations of sexual misconduct. In response, the Governing Council of the Peetham convened a virtual meeting on August 3 with over 30 women students, where multiple individuals came forward with similar complaints.
Several students alleged they were subjected to harassment and psychological trauma. Some claimed they were coerced—particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds—into visiting Chaitanyananda Saraswati’s quarters at night. Additional accusations include the sending of lewd messages via WhatsApp and SMS, threats related to withholding degrees and official documents, and surveillance through CCTV cameras installed in the women’s hostel under the guise of security.
The FIR also alleges that individuals close to the accused enabled his actions, pressuring students to comply while disregarding complaints. It further states that students were intimidated with threats of suspension and discouraged from involving their parents. One student was reportedly forced to change her name.
In light of these allegations, Sri Sharada Peetham issued a public statement condemning Chaitanyananda Saraswati’s conduct. Formerly known as Dr. Parthasarathy, he is accused of engaging in “illegal, inappropriate, and harmful” activities. The Peetham has confirmed that it has lodged official complaints with the relevant authorities and disassociated from him entirely.
The matter is currently under investigation.
