Victims have claimed that female faculty and other staff of the college instigated and pressured them to fulfill the accused's demands. An FIR was registered against Chaitanyanand on August 4.
He is currently absconding. Police sources have revealed that his location has been traced near Agra, UP.
He was the chief of the institute at that time. After the case came to light, he was removed from the post on August 9.
Police have seized his Volvo car, on which he used to roam around with a fake United Nations (39 UN 1) number plate.
Allegations
The victims reported that the accused used abusive language, sent obscene WhatsApp messages, and engaged in inappropriate physical contact. Some staff members, allegedly in faculty or administrative positions, were accused of pressuring students to comply with the demands of the accused.
A total of 32 students have given statements to the police so far, with 17 explicitly detailing incidents of harassment and exploitation.
The program comprises two batches, each with more than 35 female students. Several students alleged that certain wardens facilitated meetings between them and Chaitanyananda, which were later exploited for sexual harassment.
According to police officials, the ashram in Vasant Kunj is affiliated with the renowned Shringheri Sharadapeeth in South India and runs the Shri Sharada Institute of Indian Management-Research, an AICTE-recognised institute offering a postgraduate management program.
Fake Diplomatic Car
Investigations revealed that Chaitanyananda was using a luxury Volvo car with a fake UN number plate marked '39 UN 1.' The Delhi Police have seized the vehicle and are using it as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police teams have conducted multiple raids in Delhi and surrounding areas, but have yet to apprehend the accused. Authorities are also investigating the possibility of Chaitanyananda evading law enforcement by using the fake diplomatic number plate and moving between Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
Police continue to conduct searches in Agra, where his last known location was identified, and have coordinated with local authorities to track his movements.
The case highlights the challenges institutions face in safeguarding students, particularly in educational and spiritual organisations where trust is paramount.
Evidence and Legal Action
The Delhi Police have registered cases under sections addressing sexual harassment, insult to women’s dignity, and intimidation. Statements of the victims have been recorded in Patiala House Court under Section 183, and forensic teams are examining CCTV footage, hard drives, and network video recordings collected from the institute.
This is a high-profile case and the alleged involvement of staff in facilitating harassment. Police and Shringheri Sharadapeeth officials have assured that every effort is being made to protect the students and bring the accused to justice.
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