Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 27: Self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, accused of sexually harassing 17 female students of a Delhi management institute, allegedly operated multiple bank accounts under different names and withdrew over Rs 50 lakh after an FIR was registered against him, investigators revealed on Friday.

A Delhi court dismissed his anticipatory bail plea in a related case of cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy. Additional Sessions Judge Hardeep Kaur said custodial interrogation was essential to unravel the alleged fraud and misappropriation of funds. “Considering the seriousness of allegations and gravity of the offence, this Court is not inclined to grant anticipatory bail,” the judge stated, noting that the accused has been untraceable and his phone switched off.

Investigations found that Chaitanyananda created a fraudulent trust—Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management Research Foundation Trust—to divert revenues and property meant for the original institute and the Sringeri-based Sri Sharada Peetham. He allegedly sublet land without approval and misused the generated funds for personal gain.

The 62-year-old former chairman is accused of sexually harassing students by confiscating their phones and original certificates to maintain control. Victims told police he threatened to ruin careers, withheld documents, and expelled those who resisted. A complaint from an EWS student in March 2025 alleged extortion of an additional Rs 60,000 despite prior payments.

An FIR was lodged on August 4 after an IAF officer reported a virtual meeting in which several students detailed harassment, manipulation and threats. Police say Saraswati remains absconding as more disturbing accounts of intimidation and financial fraud continue to surface.