Overview

• Abu Azmi compared the 800-year-old Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage to Muslims offering namaz on public roads, triggering widespread political criticism.
• NCP spokesperson Anand Paranjpe branded Azmi a “toxic element” in Maharashtra and demanded decisive government action against him.
• Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dismissed the remarks as a bid for publicity and Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske accused Azmi of sowing communal discord.
• VHP leader Govind Shende condemned the comparison as disrespectful to Hindu sentiments and highlighted the Wari’s disciplined, well-managed procession.
• Participants in the Wari rejected claims of traffic obstruction, and the Minorities Commission announced plans to notify Azmi under Section 10 over statements that could provoke unrest.