Delhi Baba Finally Nabbed After 50-Day Manhunt
The Delhi Police has arrested self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Partha Sarathy, who had been absconding for nearly 50 days. The 62-year-old was caught in the early hours of Saturday from a hotel in Agra’s Taj Ganj area, ending a prolonged manhunt that began after multiple women accused him of sexual harassment.
Allegations of Harassment and Misconduct
Seventeen women—most of them postgraduate students from economically weaker backgrounds pursuing management courses—filed complaints at the Defence Colony Police Station in August. Their allegations included offensive messages, abusive language, and instances of forced physical contact. Some victims revealed that he lured them with promises of free foreign trips and academic opportunities, only to subject them to sleazy chats and intimidation.
Adding to the disturbing revelations, investigators learned that the accused had secretly installed hidden cameras in the women’s hostel at the institute where he served as director. According to complainants, certain wardens at the institute even facilitated their introduction to the so-called godman, further enabling his predatory behavior.
Air Force Intervention Triggered Investigation
The scandal came to light when the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in Vasant Kunj received a written complaint from an alumnus detailing harassment incidents. Soon after, the institute received a formal email from a Group Captain in the Directorate of Education of the Indian Air Force. The officer highlighted multiple student complaints and urged immediate action. The Air Force’s involvement was crucial, as many students at the institute come from families of service personnel, making the allegations even more concerning.
Following the mounting pressure, the ashram administration expelled Chaitanyananda from his position and distanced itself from his actions. The ashram unit he headed in Delhi is affiliated with the Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetha of Sringeri, one of South India’s oldest religious institutions. The body termed his conduct “highly inappropriate” and condemned the misuse of his religious role.
From Scholar to Scandal
Odisha-born Chaitanyananda’s personal claims of academic brilliance and international recognition add another layer to the controversy. His author profiles assert that he has written 28 books, with forewords allegedly by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs and appreciation messages from former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
One profile even stated that Barack Obama repeatedly referred to his book Transforming Personality during his 2007 campaign trail—a claim that remains unverified. His online academic credentials also project an image of exceptional scholarship, claiming an MBA and PhD from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, along with multiple post-doctoral and honorary degrees. Investigators are now examining whether these accomplishments are authentic or fabricated to bolster his standing among followers and students.
17 women accuse Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, head of Delhi’s Vasant Kunj ashram, of molestation
Students allege harassment, lewd messages & forced contact
Women faculty, staff also pressured victims to comply
Police seize Volvo with fake UN plates (39 UN 1)… pic.twitter.com/lo86D9ZAa0
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) September 24, 2025
Arrest in Agra
After fleeing Delhi on August 4, soon after the first complaint surfaced, Chaitanyananda went underground. Police sources confirmed that he moved between several locations to evade capture, before finally being tracked to Hotel First in Agra. Acting on a tip-off, police teams raided the premises at around 3:30 am and arrested him without resistance.
Authorities have since transferred him back to Delhi for questioning. He is expected to face multiple charges under sections related to sexual harassment, intimidation, and outraging the modesty of women.
Reactions and Next Steps
The case has sent shockwaves across academic and spiritual circles. Women’s rights groups in Delhi have demanded a thorough investigation, not only against the accused but also into the role of institute wardens who allegedly acted as enablers.
Police sources indicated that forensic experts will examine the seized electronic devices and hidden cameras to retrieve possible evidence of misconduct. Meanwhile, the Air Force Directorate has assured full support in ensuring justice for the students who spoke out against the powerful figure.
The arrest marks a significant step toward accountability, but survivors and activists emphasize that the case highlights the urgent need to regulate self-styled spiritual leaders who misuse their influence under the guise of mentorship and faith.
