Police arrested Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Swami Parthasarathy, early Sunday. He allegedly molested at least 17 female students at a private institute in Delhi’s Vasant Kunj. Authorities captured him in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, after he had been absconding for nearly two months. Moreover, he reportedly sent lewd messages to young women before fleeing. Earlier this week, a Delhi court rejected his anticipatory bail plea.

Facing Multiple Charges

Police said Chaitanyananda faces sexual harassment and financial fraud charges. After fleeing, he allegedly withdrew around Rs 60 lakh. In addition, investigators claimed he misappropriated over Rs 30 crore.

As the director of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, he allegedly exploited his position to harass women. Furthermore, he targeted women from weaker economic backgrounds to coerce them into sexual relations.

Complaints Emerge

The first warnings about his misconduct came in late July. Two letters reached the Peetham — one from a student and another from an Air Force officer. Subsequently, the institute received more complaints, especially from Air Force headquarters, as many students were children of Air Force personnel.

Meeting With Victims

On August 3, the Governing Council of the Peetham held a virtual meeting with over 30 women students. During the meeting, they shared their experiences and detailed the harassment.

Consequently, this arrest has sparked concern about the safety of students and accountability in educational institutions linked to powerful individuals.