NCP criticises Abu Azmi for 'wari' remark, calls him 'toxic element' in Maharashtra

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), an ally in the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra, slammed Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi on Monday for his remark about 'wari', the foot march by devotees of Lord Vitthal to the temple town of Pandharpur, and demanded action against him.

The NCP's chief spokesperson, Anand Paranjpe, condemned the SP leader's comment, saying that he has become a "toxic element" in Maharashtra.

Azmi on Sunday said Muslims have never complained about 'wari', though some leaders like Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath keep opposing namaz on the streets.


His remark drew sharp criticism from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who accused Azmi of seeking publicity.

Talking to reporters, Paranjpe said, "Abu Azmi has become a toxic element in Maharashtra, repeatedly making inflammatory statements to disrupt communal harmony. The government must act decisively against him."

He said Ashadiwari is an 800-year-old tradition.

The NCP leader pointed out that several Muslims offer their services and participate in the 'wari', which sees lakhs of 'warkaris' from different parts of the state walking to Pandharpur with 'palkhis' of Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram.

"Azmi repeatedly uses Hindu-Muslim politics to divide people. His words incite tension, and such behaviour should not be tolerated," he said.

State Ports Minister and BJP leader Nitesh Rane said no one should dare speak about Hindu culture and festivals.

"These people criticise Mahakumbh and 'wari', but these processions don't happen all year round. Should we raise questions about the Hajj pilgrimage?" he asked. PTI