Garba Row: AIMIM’s Waris Pathan Says His Remarks Were ‘Cut and Distorted’

Waris Pathan Clarifies Navratri Garba Remarks, Says Muslims Should Avoid Places Where They Are Not Respected

AIMIM national spokesperson Waris Pathan has clarified his remarks surrounding the ongoing controversy over Muslim participation in Navratri Garba events.

Pathan said his earlier statement had been “cut and distorted,” which he claimed led to unnecessary controversy. Seeking to clarify his position, he said Muslims should not visit places where they feel unwelcome or are not treated with respect.

“I had said Muslims should not go to places where they are not respected,” Pathan said.

Questioning the need for Muslims to attend such events, he referred to reports of identity checks and religious markings at some Garba venues.

“Why go somewhere you are asked to apply a tilak and your Aadhaar card is checked?” he asked.

Pathan's comments come amid a wider debate over entry rules, identity verification and the participation of Muslims at Garba and Navratri events. His clarification appeared aimed at stressing that his remarks were about avoiding places where people may feel unwelcome, rather than targeting the Navratri festival itself.

The controversy has once again brought questions of religious harmony, inclusivity and public access to cultural events into the political spotlight.