Radhe Maa enjoys ‘VIP treatment’ at a Delhi police station, occupies SHO’s chair

A picture of self-styled godwoman Radhe Maa being accorded VIP treatment at a New Delhi-based police station has emerged online, triggering an online storm and an eventual police enquiry.

The Station House Officer (SHO) Sanjay Sharma of East Delhi’s Vivek Vihar police station is seen standing with his hands folded in his office while Radhe Maa occupies his seat.

Following the picture coming to light, Delhi Police reportedly initiated an inquiry into the incident, which took place on the occasion of Maha Ashtami on September 28.

“An Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police-rank officer has begun an inquiry into the matter,” said Ravindra Yadav, Joint Commissioner of Police, Eastern Range.

The incident has been confirmed to Hindustan Times by Sanjay Sharma, the SHO seen standing alongside Radhey Maa.

“She occupied my chair for barely a few minutes... I folded my hands and requested her to leave the office... She is a religious figure,” Sharma was quoted as saying.

According to the SHO, he was in his office on September 28 when Radhe Maa and her followers were on their way to a Ramleela event in the area.

“Her followers said she wanted to visit the washroom. So, I allowed her to use the toilet (in the SHO’s office). Since the toilet was located right behind my chair, when Radhe Maa came out, she allegedly sat on the SHO’s chair without seeking permission. “There were 15-20 of her disciples along with her. They stood nearby,” said Sharma.

However, the photograph shows the smiling SHO Sanjay Sharma, draped in a red and gold shawl worn by Hindu devotees, standing next to her with his hands folded in the photograph.

News agency ANI seperately tweeted a video in which a group of policemen are seen singing and dancing with Radhe Maa during a Dussehra event as yellow flowers are showered on her.

Radhe Maa has been accused of dowry harassment, sexual harassment and posing threats to people. Prompted by recent controversies surrounding self-styled godmen, Radhe Maa has been listed among the top fourteen 'fake spiritual leaders' by Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, the apex body of Hindu sadhus.