A Delhi court delivered a significant blow to self-proclaimed godman Chaitanyananda Saraswati, dismissing his anticipatory bail plea in a high-profile case involving allegations of cheating, forgery, criminal conspiracy, and misappropriation of funds. Additional Sessions Judge Hardeep Kaur, presiding over the hearing, emphasized the severity of the accusations and the need for custodial interrogation, noting that the investigation remains in its early stages. The decision has sent ripples through the capital, spotlighting the controversial figure’s alleged misconduct at a private management institute.
The First Information Report (FIR) against Chaitanyananda details a litany of charges under the Indian Penal Code, including cheating by personation, dishonestly inducing delivery of property, forgery, using forged documents as genuine, criminal conspiracy, and criminal breach of trust.
Additionally, the self-styled spiritual leader faces grave accusations of sexually harassing 17 female students at the institute, which is operated by the Jagadguru Shankaracharya Mahasamsthanam Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetham. Police investigations have uncovered that Chaitanyananda allegedly tightened his grip over the institute by sub-letting its properties to private companies for substantial financial gains, diverting the proceeds to fund an opulent lifestyle.
Authorities have traced two luxury vehicles to the accused: a Volvo bearing a forged diplomatic number plate, “39 UN 1,” registered with a fraudulent address, and a BMW purchased in March 2025. These acquisitions, reportedly funded by misappropriated institute funds, underscore the scale of the alleged financial misconduct.
The investigating officer highlighted Chaitanyananda’s evasive behavior, noting that he is unavailable at his listed address and his mobile phone remains switched off, further justifying the court’s denial of bail. Judge Kaur stated, “Considering the seriousness of allegations and gravity of offence, this Court is not inclined to grant anticipatory bail.”
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The case has ignited public outrage, particularly due to the sexual harassment allegations, which involve vulnerable students at the institute. Preliminary findings suggest Chaitanyananda exploited his position of authority to manipulate and control institutional operations, channeling profits into personal assets. The police are probing deeper into the network of private companies involved in the sub-letting scheme, with suspicions of a broader conspiracy involving accomplices yet to be identified.
This development follows a string of controversies surrounding self-styled godmen in India, raising questions about the regulation of spiritual and educational institutions. The court’s decision marks a critical step in holding influential figures accountable, as authorities continue to unravel the full extent of Chaitanyananda’s alleged crimes. The investigation is expected to intensify, with custodial interrogation aimed at uncovering the complete chain of fraud and ensuring justice for the victims.
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