Pune: The upcoming Assembly election on November 20 coincides with Maharashtra’s Kartiki Yatra, a major pilgrimage event that draws millions of Warkaris to Alandi.
This overlap has raised concerns that a large number of Warkaris will be unable to vote, potentially impacting voter turnout.
The Kartiki Yatra, a significant pilgrimage marking Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s Samadhi, spans from November 23 (Ashtami) to December 1 (Amavasya), with pilgrims beginning their journey well in advance.
The yatra’s traditional schedule has Warkaris, particularly from Marathwada, departing around November 20 to ensure they reach Alandi in time for the festivities.
For example, Warkaris from Marathwada set out by November 20 and are expected to reach Alandi by November 22 and 23, while Dindis from Pandharpur will arrive on November 23 (Ashtami).
With hundreds of Dindis already en route, many Warkaris are likely to be on the road, missing the opportunity to vote on election day.
The Election Commission’s scheduling of the Assembly election without adjusting for the Kartiki Yatra’s timing has sparked questions about potential impacts on voter participation.
“About 50 palanquins and 400 to 500 Dindis are on their way to Alandi from all over Maharashtra, with around 100,000 Warkaris expected to miss voting due to their pilgrimage,” said Rambhau Chopdar, representing the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi procession told mediapersons.
