Special Correspondent
Pune: A case has been registered against Abu Asim Azmi, MLA of the Samajwadi Party from Mumbai, for making allegedly objectionable remarks about the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage. The complaint was lodged at Bharati Vidyapeeth Police Station in Pune by Santosh Sathe, president of the political group Sangharsh Sena.
Azmi’s recent statement during a speech has sparked outrage among the Warkari community, with accusations that his words hurt Hindu religious sentiments. The issue rapidly gained traction on social media, where several users condemned Azmi’s remarks as offensive and provocative.
According to the police complaint, Azmi has been booked under Sections 299 (hurting religious sentiments) and 302 (attempt to incite hatred) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Pune Police confirmed that the case has been registered and an investigation is underway.
Addressing the press, complainant Santosh Sathe stated, “The Wari is a symbol of Maharashtra’s cultural and spiritual identity. Any insult to this sacred tradition will not be tolerated. We demand strict action.”
The controversy comes at a sensitive time as preparations for the Ashadhi Wari are currently in full swing across Maharashtra. Police officials have taken serious note of the situation and are examining video footage of Azmi’s speech to ascertain the full context.
In the controversial statement, Azmi had said:
“The roads get blocked during Wari, and Hindus celebrate their festivals. Muslims do not object to that. But when Muslims offer namaz on the streets, complaints are made. Now, even Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister says that if anyone offers namaz outside a mosque, their passport and driving license will be canceled. We have never objected to Wari causing roadblocks.”
Following heavy backlash, Azmi issued an apology via social media. He clarified that his remarks were misinterpreted and taken out of context. “If my words have hurt the sentiments of the Warkari community, I take them back and sincerely apologize. My intention was never to offend anyone’s religious beliefs,” he stated.
Meanwhile, various Warkari organizations have demanded legal action against Azmi and warned of possible protests across Maharashtra if the government fails to act. The police have heightened security in Pune and other sensitive locations to prevent any escalation.
