Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has strongly criticized the Vishva Hindu Parishad's (VHP) recent advisory that seeks to restrict entry to Garba events during Navratri to Hindus only. Athawale condemned the advisory, stating that such calls are tantamount to "inviting violence" and that the VHP would be responsible for any clashes that occur during Navratri.

The VHP's advisory for Navratri celebrations, which are set to begin on September 22 and end on October 1, has sparked controversy. The organization has advised Garba event organizers to check the Aadhaar cards of entrants for identification purposes. In addition, the VHP suggests applying 'tilak' (a mark on the forehead), tying a sacred thread ('raksha sutra'), and ensuring participants perform puja before entering the Garba events. According to VHP, VHP and Bajrang Dal workers will monitor Garba pandals to ensure the guidelines are followed. The organization's Vidarbha general secretary, Prashant Titre, said that 'Gau Mutra' or cow urine, will also be sprinkled on attendees.

The VHP contends that these measures are necessary to ensure that only Hindus enter the events and to prevent incidents of "love jihad," a term used by some right-wing groups to allege the attempted conversion of Hindu girls and women by Muslim men. VHP national spokesperson Shriraj Nair stated that Garba is not merely a dance but a form of worship to please the goddess and that only those having faith in the rituals should be allowed to participate.

In response to the VHP's stance, Maharashtra Minister and senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule said that organizing committees have the right to set conditions of entry at an event, provided it is held with police permission. Maharashtra BJP media head Navnath Ban emphasized that Garba is a Hindu event and those from other religions should not interfere while Hindus perform Garba and worship the goddess.

However, the opposition has strongly criticized the VHP's advisory. Maharashtra Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar slammed the VHP for wanting to "set society on fire" and divide society over religion for political benefits. He stated that the VHP's stand shakes the "unity in diversity" foundation of India and reflects the stand of the government.

Athawale emphasized India's unity and religious tolerance, highlighting the Constitution's guarantee of equality and religious freedom. The controversy has ignited a debate over religious discrimination and social harmony.