By News Karnataka Editorial Team

Copyright newskarnataka

Chaitanyananda Saraswati, accused of harassing women students of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, is facing serious charges after police found evidence of his attempts to mislead investigators. Officials revealed that the swami was operating a London-based WhatsApp number to evade local monitoring and misdirect the probe. The revelations come amid mounting allegations of harassment, intimidation and honey-trapping activities.

Police uncover digital surveillance tactics

During the ongoing investigation, the Delhi Police found a CCTV monitoring app installed on Saraswati’s mobile phone. This application enabled him to remotely access the ashram’s surveillance cameras, raising concerns about misuse of technology for monitoring students and staff.

An officer involved in the case said, “He has been continuously misleading us, but we confronted Chaitanyananda with evidence that directly links him to suspicious activities.”

Investigators have questioned three women closely associated with the institute, including the dean and two wardens, to establish a clearer picture of the events inside the campus.

Obscene images recovered from device

Police have also recovered an obscene photograph of a woman from inside the accused’s room. According to investigators, the image strengthens the case of misconduct and harassment.

Officers further revealed that after the case was registered, Saraswati attempted to project an image of being untouchable. He allegedly told some students that he could influence the judiciary, boasting, “I’ll call the Chief Justice right now.” Such remarks, police say, were designed to intimidate potential complainants and discourage them from coming forward.

Honey-trapping allegations surface

Another disturbing aspect of the investigation involves claims of honey-trapping. Police sources said Saraswati reportedly took some women students to Almora, where he allegedly coerced them into compromising activities.

In one incident, he is said to have instructed a girl to send him obscene photographs with a boy, promising her money to trap the individual. Officers said this suggested a deliberate pattern of blackmail and manipulation.

Pattern of intimidation and manipulation

Officials investigating the case described Saraswati’s actions as a mix of harassment, exploitation and manipulation, where he allegedly exploited his spiritual position to control students. By using technology such as foreign-based communication apps and surveillance tools, he reportedly attempted to maintain a sense of authority while avoiding detection.

Police say the evidence recovered so far indicates a calculated strategy rather than impulsive behaviour.

Wider implications for the institute

The allegations have cast a shadow over the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, an institute known for blending traditional Indian values with modern management education. Students and parents are reportedly concerned about safety within campus premises.

Authorities have assured that strict measures will be taken to ensure student safety and that the institute will be kept under close watch until the investigation concludes.

Ongoing probe and next steps

Delhi Police said further analysis of electronic devices, including mobile phones and cloud backups, is underway. Forensic experts are examining whether more images, videos or communications linked to the accused can be recovered.

Officials added that they are also investigating possible financial transactions connected to the alleged honey-trapping operations, which could provide insight into the scale of the misconduct.

While Saraswati continues to deny wrongdoing, officers said the combination of digital evidence, testimonies and photographs is creating a strong case against him.

The investigation into Chaitanyananda Saraswati has revealed a disturbing pattern of harassment, surveillance and manipulation. With police uncovering evidence ranging from obscene photographs to misuse of foreign communication channels, the case highlights how spiritual authority can sometimes be misused for exploitation. Authorities maintain that the probe will continue until all aspects are examined, with a strong focus on ensuring justice for the affected students and restoring trust in the institution.