I understand Maharaj had a very strict policy of turning away devotees who came to him with worldly desires. Is this correct?

This is a misunderstanding of his approach. The texts from Chapter 0 state the opposite, noting that 'The proportion of devotees with worldly desires (Sakam) among those coming to Maharaj was very large.' Instead of turning them away, Maharaj had a unique method for helping them. He would first satisfy their worldly desires, and in the process, he would 'seamlessly turn their minds toward ultimate welfare.' This shows that his mission was inclusive and aimed at the salvation of everyone, regardless of whether they initially came for spiritual or worldly reasons, demonstrating his compassion and skillful means of instruction.