A Delhi court has sent self-styled godman Chaitanyananda, also known as Nithyananda, to five-day police custody in connection with a sexual assault case. The Delhi Police sought his custody to investigate allegations made by a woman who accused him of sexual exploitation under the guise of spiritual guidance.

According to officials, the complaint was filed earlier this month at a police station in Delhi, where the victim claimed that Chaitanyananda lured her with promises of spiritual enlightenment and later sexually assaulted her. During the hearing, police argued that they needed his custody to recover electronic evidence, question him about the incident, and trace other possible victims.

The defense lawyer opposed the police plea, claiming that the charges were fabricated and politically motivated. However, the court accepted the prosecution's argument, noting that custodial interrogation was essential for the progress of the investigation.

Police sources stated that they are also probing the activities of Chaitanyananda’s organization and its followers. The accused is likely to face charges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including sexual assault and criminal intimidation.

The case has sparked public outrage, with activists demanding a thorough probe to ensure justice for the survivor.