A political debate has emerged in Maharashtra over comments made about the Warkari sect, a centuries-old spiritual movement dedicated to Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur. The row erupted after Sharad Pawar, in a magazine article, expressed concern that regressive elements had entered the tradition and that certain discourses were encouraging religious fanaticism.

Responding to these remarks, Devendra Fadnavis strongly rejected the claims, stating that the article showed a lack of understanding of the sect’s values and history, reported PTI.