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New Delhi: Controversial self-styled godman Chaitanyanand Saraswati will remain in jail after a Delhi court on Monday extended his judicial custody for another 14 days. The spiritual leader, arrested in a multi-crore land fraud case, will now have his bail plea heard on November 7.
The decision came after a day of high drama and heated arguments at the Tis Hazari Court complex.
SIT Argues Against Bail, Cites Tampering Risk
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the alleged ‘Ashram Land Scam‘, strongly opposed any relief for the guru. The public prosecutor argued that the investigation is at a “critical juncture” and that Chaitanyanand Saraswati’s release could lead to evidence tampering and the influencing of key witnesses, many of whom are former followers.
“We have uncovered a complex web of shell companies and financial transactions designed to siphon funds and illegally acquire land,” the SIT’s counsel told the magistrate. “The accused’s release would pose a significant risk to the integrity of this ongoing investigation.”
The SIT also submitted a sealed envelope containing what it claimed was new evidence directly linking the guru to the fraudulent activities.
Defense Claims “Malicious Witch-Hunt”
Chaitanyanand Saraswati’s legal team vehemently opposed the extension of his custody, calling the case a “malicious witch-hunt.” His counsel argued that the SIT has failed to produce any concrete evidence despite holding him for over three weeks.
“My client is a respected spiritual figure with deep roots in society. He is not a flight risk,” the defense counsel contended. “To keep him incarcerated based on mere conjecture is a gross violation of his fundamental rights.”
After hearing both arguments, the magistrate sided with the prosecution, extending the custody.
What is the Ashram Land Scam Case?
The case against Chaitanyanand Saraswati revolves around allegations that he and his close aides conspired to illegally acquire large tracts of agricultural and forest land for his ashram’s expansion. Several farmers have filed complaints, accusing the guru’s trust of using coercion, intimidation, and forged documents to seize their properties. Investigators are also probing potential money laundering, with devotee donations allegedly being diverted to fund these land purchases.
Outside the court, hundreds of followers gathered, chanting slogans and proclaiming the guru’s innocence amid a heavy police presence. As Chaitanyanand was escorted back to Tihar Jail, the focus now shifts entirely to the pivotal bail plea hearing scheduled for November 7.
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