The case against self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Parthasarathy, has taken a darker turn as Delhi Police recovered a sex toy and several CDs suspected of containing obscene content from his ashram in Vasant Kunj. The 62-year-old, originally from Odisha, faces accusations of sexually assaulting at least 17 women.
The items were discovered during a search of the Swami's room on Tuesday. According to officials, the recovered items point to the Swami's "compulsive sexual behavior". In addition to the concerning items, authorities also found three fake photos depicting Chaitanyananda with prominent world leaders, including former US President Barack Obama, a UK politician, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These images, along with fake visiting cards claiming he was a "permanent ambassador" to the UN Economic and Social Council and a "special envoy" to the BRICS grouping, were likely used to impress followers and potential victims. Police have frozen assets worth Rs 8 crore.
The investigation also revealed disturbing WhatsApp messages between Chaitanyananda and his students. In these chats, he used inappropriate language, addressing one student as "sweetie baby daughter doll" and repeatedly calling her "baby". One message even directly asked a student, "You'll not sleep with me?". Even more alarming is a chat suggesting the Swami's involvement in a sex trafficking ring, where he inquired if a student knew any "nice friend" for a "Dubai Sheikh" seeking a sex partner.
Chaitanyananda had been evading police for nearly two months after cases of sexual harassment were filed against him in August. He was finally apprehended in a hotel in Agra on Sunday. Since the initial complaint on August 4, he had been on the run for 50 days. During his time in hiding, he stayed in 15 hotels and focused on avoiding CCTVs.
The police investigation has extended to locations in Uttarakhand's Almora and Bageshwar, where Chaitanyananda sought refuge while evading arrest. Authorities are scrutinizing digital devices seized during his arrest, including a mobile phone with access to CCTV cameras at the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, where he served as director. He allegedly exploited his position to coerce women, particularly those from Economically Weaker Sections, into sexual favors by threatening to withhold marks.
The Delhi Police have also arrested Hari Singh Kopkoti, an aide accused of threatening a victim's father. Two female associates of Chaitanyananda have also been detained and are being questioned. The self-styled godman is reportedly giving "evasive answers" and only responding when confronted with evidence.
The case has triggered widespread condemnation, with many calling for greater scrutiny of self-proclaimed godmen who exploit religious and spiritual platforms for personal gain. Police have assured a thorough investigation into all aspects of the case, including potential links to trafficking and forgery.
