BJP MP Kulkarni draws flak for Vat Purnima rituals at Mahatma Phule Wada

BJP MP Medha Kulkarni faced criticism for performing Vat Purnima rituals at the Mahatma Phule Wada, a site significant to social reformer Mahatma Jyotiba Phule. Activists from the OBC Sangharsh Samiti and other groups objected to her presence, arguing it was disrespectful to Phule's legacy and promoted superstitious beliefs. They pointed out that she chose the historic location despite living in Kothrud, a different area of Pune. Kulkarni stated that she did not organize the event but attended as invited by local women and activists. The Pimpri-Chinchwad Congress unit condemned her actions, calling them casteist and contradicting Mahatma Phule's principles. The incident sparked debate about the intersection of tradition, social reform, and political agendas in Pune.