Despite Pounded with Sex Scandal, Anand Ashram Stays Tough

JAKARTA LIFE'S STYLE

Anand Krishna, a spiritual movement leader has been accused of sexual harassment by a former follower, Tara Pradibta Laksmi, 19. Tara has filed her harassment case to the Jakarta Police, and also to the National Commission for Women. However, the Anand Ashram, the foundation that comprises Anand Krishna's spiritual activities is still gaining new followers.

Tara and her legal representative, Agung Mattauch, filed in their case to the Jakarta Police on Monday. "We've reported the sexual harassment case, as arranged in Chapter 290 of the Criminal Code," Agung commented.

He described Anand's harassments, such as hugging, kissing Tara during therapy, and touching Tara's sensitive parts. He claimed that Tara was harassed in a hypnotized or unconscious state at Anand's practice in Layoweda, Fatmawati.

Tara admitted that she was powerless to resist Anand. "Hynotized. I wasn't totally unconscious, but my mind just couldn't resist. I said yes to whatever he said. I was isolated in a house for three months."

The harassment occured last year, but Tara has only reported recently, why is that? "For a sexual harassment case, it takes an incredible amount of energy for the victim to speak up. This isn't a new case. We're reporting because there's an even more urgent message to stop others from being victimized. Many others are silent because they're ashamed," Agung answered.

He also claimed that nine women between 19 to 30 years of age were harassed by the spiritual teacher. Possibly they will all go to the police. "Tara is reporting first to ease the investigation."

Attached with the report are evidences such as: witness testimonials, psychologist explanations, and Anand's wooing emails to Tara.

Anand Krishna speaks up

Sunday, at the Anand Krishna Centre on Pura Mertasari street, Bali, Anand Krishna denies the sexual harassment accusation against him. "I don't have students. I never initiate anyone, so there are no students. But if people think I'm a teacher, then they are free to do so. All the accusations are false and we've denied them."

Anand is ready to face litigation and if necessary will even counter with a charge. "Whatever happens, we will face this. We will face it calmly, and of course we have friends who can help us."

Regarding the hypnosis issue complained by Tara, Anand counters, "I don't hypnotize. If they had been hypnotized they'd still be with me."

Anand Ashram is still growing

Meanwhile, regarding the sexual harassment accusation, the chairperson of the Anand Ashram, Maya Safira Muchtar, stated to Kompas.com, Wednesday, "Our number of students isn't dropping, instead we've got new students." Maya continues to state that all of Anand's centers in Bali, Surabaya, and Lampung are doing business as usual. Anand's organization is open and there's no membership system. People come and go. "After therapy it's up to them whether to continue or not."

Maya commented about Tara, "We can't stop people from making a report. this is an occupational hazzard for Mr. Anand, who is also very vocal. He is fighting for the nation, for interfaith figures, and education. Not everyone can accept those things."(kompas.com)

RELATED TOPIC :
Peta Pengalihan Lalu Lintas Hari Ini