Pawar’s ‘Regressive Infiltration’ Claim On Warkaris Draws Fire
Mr. Pawar should clarify how he proposes to address the alleged presence of “urban Naxals: Maharashtra BJP chief spokesperson Navnath Ban
MUMBAI: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) founder and Rajya Sabha MP Sharad Pawar has claimed that individuals with “regressive ideologies” have infiltrated the Warkari sect, raising concerns about the direction of the traditional socio-religious movement. In an interview, Mr. Pawar said that nearly 60 per cent of those associated with the sect appear to be reinforcing religious fundamentalist ideas.
Mr. Pawar’s remarks drew sharp reactions from ruling parties, particularly the BJP. BJP Spiritual Front chief Acharya Tushar Bhosale criticised him, while senior BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar said Mr. Pawar had committed a “blunder” despite his experience. Shiv Sena leader and Cabinet minister Sanjay Shirsat said people from different religions participate in the Wari and alleged that such remarks defame Hinduism.
The interview was published in a souvenir released during the All-India Literary Conference of women government officers. Responding to a question on rising extremism in society, Mr. Pawar said that even in institutions like the Warkari sect, “regressive elements” were becoming visible. He claimed that around 60 per cent of participants express views that strengthen religious forces, adding that efforts were underway to identify those promoting progressive ideas. He noted that about 40 individuals currently present progressive positions through kirtans and discourses.
Mr. Pawar also expressed concern over the limited presence of women in progressive discourse within the sect. He said instances of derogatory remarks about women were increasing and often met with acceptance among audiences. He further observed that the number of women kirtankars presenting regressive views appeared to be rising.
Following publication of the interview, BJP leaders criticised Mr. Pawar for linking the Warkari community with religious fanaticism. Speaking to this newspaper, Mr. Mungantiwar said Hindus cannot be termed “dharmandh” (religious fanatics), arguing that they have not historically destroyed places of worship or forced conversions. He added that Hindus often visit places of worship of other religions and participate in the Wari as devotees of Vithoba.
Mr. Bhosale alleged that Mr. Pawar has been critical of the Hindu and Warkari communities, and questioned his stance by referring to his participation in Iftar gatherings. He further claimed that attempts were being made to separate the Warkari tradition from Hinduism, which he opposed.
Maharashtra BJP chief spokesperson Navnath Ban said Mr. Pawar should clarify how he proposes to address the alleged presence of “urban Naxals” within the Warkari sect.
The BJP asserted that the Warkari sect is a reformist tradition nurtured by saints such as Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram, and has played a significant role in the Bhakti movement, promoting devotion, social reform, and spiritual equality.
