New Delhi, May 14 (IANS): A political uproar has erupted in India after Madhya Pradesh BJP Minister Vijay Shah made controversial remarks perceived as targeting Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. Speaking at a public gathering in Mhow, Shah alluded to ‘Operation Sindoor’ and mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sent a “sister from the same community” as those in Pakistan to avenge the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. This remark has been widely criticized, especially given that Colonel Qureshi is from the Muslim community.
RJD leader Manoj Jha condemned Shah’s comments, calling it a disgrace. He stated, “Both the daughters of India, Sofiya and Vyomika, conducted an impressive press briefing. They not only highlighted our military’s strength but also represented our country well. That briefing sent a clear message to the world about India’s position.” Jha also noted that it was concerning to see senior BJP leaders silent on the issue, drawing parallels to a previous incident involving Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
BJP national spokesperson Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi expressed his disapproval, declaring, “This is a wrong and idiotic statement. Qureshi and her family are dedicated to national security and are a source of pride for the country. Does he not know the difference between terrorism and nationalism? This kind of statement is entirely unacceptable.”
Madhya Pradesh BJP President V.D. Sharma assured that BJP leadership is sensitive to such issues and emphasized that no one has the right to question a woman who is a daughter of the nation. He stated, “The bravery she has shown is saluted by the entire country.” JD(U) leader K.C. Tyagi also criticized Shah, saying, “His statement is problematic and he should apologize to the nation for disrespecting women.”
Shadab Shams, President of the Uttarakhand Waqf Board, added that Colonel Qureshi should not be judged by her religion, asserting that she is a pride of the nation and that all Indians are willing to make sacrifices when necessary. He expressed pity for Shah, suggesting that the party itself would handle such comments internally.
The backlash prompted immediate damage control, leading to a closed-door meeting between Minister Shah and state BJP chief V.D. Sharma. Following the discussion, Shah issued a clarification, stating, “I have nothing to say about those twisting my remarks. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has made the nation proud. We respect both sisters. I meant no offense, and I sincerely apologize.”
Colonel Qureshi, along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh from the Indian Air Force, played a vital role in the media briefing during ‘Operation Sindoor’, which was India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. Both officers have been praised for their professionalism and have become symbols of the armed forces’ determination.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/mp-minister-vijay-shah-faces-leaders-wrath-after-controversial-remarks-on-colonel-sofiya-qureshi
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Publish Date: 2025-05-14 15:58:00
