Pot-bellied policemen, who had been asked to cut down on flab by their senior, are now reportedly seeking divine help to get him transferred from Morena district.
The target of the 'yagya', performed today, is Superintendent of Police Rajesh Gupta, who after taking over charge a month ago, had suspended nearly a dozen policemen, including three inspectors and two sub-inspectors for incompetence.
The overweight policemen were warned of suspension by Gupta in case they don't shed weight within two months.
Specific work out schedules and gaming activities were prescribed by the district police chief.
"I had information about the yagya performed at a temple deep in the jungles of Amvaha tehsil near here," Gupta told PTI, and dismissed it as "unworthy of notice".
The strict mandates issued by the SP included immediate control over gambling activities and illicit liquor trade.
Small-time local leaders involved in illicit activities were also said to be supporting the ritual. Though the cops could follow orders to control crime, getting in shape within stipulated duration "became
unbearable".
A select group of cops reportedly knocked the doors of pundits to find a solution. The pundits have reportedly assured them that conditions leading to the SP getting 'krishn mukh' (transferred) would emerge after the 'yagya'.
"The yagyas won't reduce weight and I am unmoved." The SP had the last word.