RPI(A) chief Athawale seeks CBI probe against Radhe Maa

Republican Party of India (A) president Ramdas Athawale

Republican Party of India (A) president Ramdas Athawale on Wednesday demanded a CBI probe into the cases against self-styled godwoman Radhe Maa, who has been accused of intimidation, sexual harassment and voyeurism, and threatened of agitation if the demand was not met.

Republican Party of India (A) president Ramdas Athawale. Pic/PTI

"There have been serious charges levelled against Radhe Maa and her associates. It is possible that there might be followers of the godwoman in the police force and thus a proper inquiry may not be conducted. Thus, it is necessary that the case be handed over to the CBI, who will do a fair investigation into the case," Athawale told reporters in Mumbai.

Mumbai police had on Tuesday registered a fresh FIR against Radhe Maa and over a dozen of her family members as well as associates, based on the complaint filed by TV actress Dolly Bindra.

Athawale further said that he will soon meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to press for his demand. "We firmly stand behind Dolly Bindra in her case. If our demand is not met, I and my party workers will hold a protest outside the Borivali police station on September 4.

There are people like (another controversial self styled godman) Asaram Bapu who cheat people giving them false promises. This needs to be stopped once and for all," he said. He further alleged that Borivali police officials are hand in gloves with the godwoman and thus no action is being taken against her.

Earlier, the suburban Kandivali police had registered an FIR against Radhe Maa for alleged dowry harassment in August. However, Radhe Maa has been granted interim relief by the Bombay High Court in that case.