Delhi godman in 14 day custody amid harassment charges

Delhi godman in 14 day custody amid harassment charges

Last Updated Oct - 04 - 2025, 04:07 PM | Source : Fela News

Court orders custody, accused requests jail comforts, police add new intimidation charges.

A Delhi court on Friday remanded self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyananda to 14 days judicial custody in connection with sexual harassment allegations at a city based management institute. The case, which already attracted wide attention due to the accused religious following and public image, has take a more serious turn after new charges were adding to the complaint.

Police told the Patiala House Court that the first information report (FIR) now also include Section 232 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deal with threatening a person to give false evidence. This is addition to earlier charges of sexual harassment, insulting woman’s modesty, and criminal intimidation. According to investigators, the godman was threatening one of the complainant after the FIR register, raising concern about influencing of witnesses.

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During the court hearing, Chaitanyananda’s legal team make several unusual request. They ask permission for him to wear monk robes even in custody, citing religious identity. The lawyers also demanded access to specific medicine, a strictly vegetarian diet that exclude onion and garlic, and preservation of case related document. The court asked Delhi Police to respond formally before pass any order.

The case create storm not only in legal circles but also in public debate. Many observers note such request for special treatment highlight privilege often seek by high-profile accused, even facing serious charges. Critics argue jail rules must apply equal to everyone, irrespective of social or religious stand.

Supporters of the accused however said his detention is politically motivate and an attack on religious freedom. They argue that denying him basic rights to practice lifestyle in jail will amount discrimination. On other hand, women’s rights activist maintain focus should remain firmly on allegations, which are serious and demand fair trial without undue influence.

As the case go forward, eyes will be on how the court balance religious accommodations demand with principle of equality before law. The coming weeks expect to reveal whether judiciary give priority to procedural fairness while making sure dignity of complainant not compromise.

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