The Additional Sessions Judge Hardeep Kaur of Patiala House Court reserved the decision on Baba Chaitanyanand Saraswati’s anticipatory bail plea after hearing arguments from both the prosecution and defence.
The plea arises after authorities allege that the accused misappropriated land belonging to the Sharda Institute of Indian Management by using a trust as a cover.
During the hearing, Baba Chaitanyanand’s counsel argued that the charges were part of a premeditated effort against him.
The lawyer said that on 19 September, when the accused left his Delhi ashram, authorities deliberately lodged three FIRs against him.
The defence argued that the police filed these FIRs without proper investigation to block his return to Delhi.
The police told the court that Baba Chaitanyanand holds two passports and two PAN cards, which he allegedly used to commit fraud and open bank accounts illegally.
After the FIRs were registered, he reportedly withdrew approximately Rs 50–55 lakh from these accounts.
Baba Chaitanyanand faces a total of five FIRs, including allegations of sexual harassment of women, cheating, and possession of a vehicle with fake number plates.
The Vasant Kunj North Police Station has registered cases under Sections 75(2) (sexual harassment), 79 (intention to insult modesty of a woman through words or gestures), and 351(2) (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code.
Baba Chaitanyanand, who identifies himself as a saint, has been residing at his ashram for nearly 12 years.
However, this is not the first time he has faced allegations of sexual harassment.
The ongoing investigation continues to examine the alleged financial irregularities, misconduct, and other charges brought against him.
The court reserved its order and will deliver a ruling on the anticipatory bail plea in the coming days.
Legal observers note that the case has garnered significant attention due to the combination of alleged financial fraud and misconduct, alongside claims of abuse within the ashram.
The outcome of the anticipatory bail plea could impact further proceedings in the multiple FIRs registered against Baba Chaitanyanand.
Authorities continue to investigate the allegations thoroughly, emphasising accountability and adherence to legal protocols.
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