BJP Naqvi Condemns Vijay Shah Controversial Remarks on Col Qureshi
In a stunning rebuke, Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has publicly condemned Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah for his highly offensive and controversial remarks directed at Colonel Sofia Qureshi, a decorated Indian Army officer. The remarks, made during a public gathering on May 13, 2025, have ignited a firestorm of criticism across political and social spheres, with Naqvi labeling Shah’s comments as “unacceptable” and “condemnable.”
This incident has not only embarrassed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) but also raised serious questions about the responsibility of public figures in maintaining respect for the nation’s armed forces.
Naqvi’s sharp criticism came in response to Shah’s remarks, which appeared to project Colonel Qureshi as a “sister of terrorists.” Speaking to PTI Videos, Naqvi did not mince words, stating, “Wo bewakoof hain (He is a fool).” He further remarked, “Kuch log josh mein hosh khone ke aadi ban gaye hain,” translating to “Some people have become habitual of losing sense in enthusiasm.”
Naqvi emphasized that Shah’s comments were not only inappropriate but also a disservice to Colonel Qureshi, whose family has a long-standing commitment to national security. The country, he noted, salutes her and her family for their unwavering nationalist resolve.
The Context of the Controversy
The controversy erupted when Vijay Shah, Madhya Pradesh’s Tribal Affairs Minister, addressed a public event in Mhow, near Indore, on May 13, 2025. In an attempt to praise Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Operation Sindoor—India’s military response to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack—Shah made remarks that were widely interpreted as derogatory and communal.
He reportedly said, “Those who widowed our daughters [in Pahalgam], we sent a sister of their own to teach them a lesson.” These comments were perceived as targeting Colonel Qureshi, who, along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, conducted press briefings on Operation Sindoor.
Colonel Qureshi, a senior officer in the Indian Army Corps of Signals, has a distinguished record, notably becoming the first woman to lead a multinational military exercise in 2016. Her role in briefing the media during Operation Sindoor earned her widespread admiration for her professionalism and clarity.
However, Shah’s remarks, which appeared to link her to terrorists based on her presumed faith, sparked immediate backlash. The Madhya Pradesh High Court took suo motu cognizance of the issue, ordering police to file an FIR against Shah under Section 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for potentially endangering national unity.
Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, a prominent BJP leader and former Union Minister, was quick to defend Colonel Qureshi’s honor. He highlighted her family’s dedication to national security, noting that their service is a source of pride for the nation. “Shah has become a laughing stock by making such senseless comments,” Naqvi told reporters, underscoring the gravity of the minister’s error.
His remarks reflect a broader sentiment within the BJP, with party leaders like State President V.D. Sharma and former Chief Minister Uma Bharti also condemning Shah’s statements. Sharma described Qureshi as “the daughter of the nation,” while Bharti demanded Shah’s immediate dismissal, stating he had “brought shame to the entire nation.”
The BJP’s swift response indicates an effort to contain the damage caused by Shah’s remarks. Sources within the party revealed that Shah was summoned to the BJP headquarters in Bhopal on May 13, where he was reprimanded by senior leaders. Despite his apologies, where he claimed his comments were misconstrued and expressed respect for Qureshi, the backlash continues to grow.
Shah stated, “If anyone is hurt by my statement, I am ready to apologize ten times,” adding that he respects Colonel Qureshi “more than my sister.” However, these apologies have done little to quell the outrage from opposition parties and the public.
Public and Political Reactions
The controversy has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge demanding Shah’s immediate sacking. Kharge described the remarks as “derogatory, communal, and shameful,” accusing the BJP of fostering an anti-woman mentality.
Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Jitu Patwari echoed these sentiments, staging protests and demanding Shah’s dismissal within 24 hours. Other political figures, including RJD leader Manoj Jha and JD(U) leader K.C. Tyagi, labeled the remarks as “problematic” and “condemnable,” urging the BJP to take strict action.
Social media platforms have also been abuzz with support for Colonel Qureshi. Netizens have praised her professionalism and condemned Shah’s remarks as divisive and disrespectful to the Indian Army.
The National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar issued a statement calling the comments “unfortunate” and urged public figures to adopt a respectful tone, particularly toward women in uniform.
The Broader Implications
This incident has sparked a larger conversation about the responsibility of elected officials to uphold unity and respect for the armed forces. Colonel Qureshi’s role in Operation Sindoor symbolized India’s unified response to terrorism, yet Shah’s remarks risked undermining this narrative.
Naqvi’s condemnation, coupled with the BJP’s internal disciplinary measures, signals an attempt to reaffirm the party’s commitment to national pride and respect for the military.
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Moreover, the controversy has highlighted the challenges of navigating sensitive issues like religion and nationalism in public discourse. Shah’s attempt to communalize Qureshi’s role in Operation Sindoor has been widely criticized as a misstep that could alienate voters and damage the BJP’s image. As the party prepares for upcoming elections, it will need to address such incidents decisively to maintain public trust.
In Conclusion, The controversy surrounding Vijay Shah’s remarks on Colonel Sofia Qureshi has underscored the importance of responsible public discourse, particularly when it involves the Indian Army. Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi’s swift condemnation, coupled with widespread political and public backlash, highlights the nation’s respect for its armed forces and intolerance for divisive rhetoric. As the BJP navigates this crisis, the incident serves as a reminder that unity and respect remain paramount in India’s diverse society.
FAQs
How did Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi respond to Shah’s remarks?
Naqvi condemned Shah’s comments as “unacceptable and condemnable,” calling him a “fool” and emphasizing Colonel Qureshi’s family’s dedication to national security.
What actions has the BJP taken against Vijay Shah?
The BJP summoned Shah to its Bhopal headquarters, where he was reprimanded by senior leaders. The party has also publicly distanced itself from his remarks, with leaders like V.D. Sharma affirming Qureshi’s contributions.
What did Vijay Shah say about Colonel Sofia Qureshi?
Vijay Shah made controversial remarks during a public event, implying that Colonel Qureshi was a “sister of terrorists” sent to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack, which were widely seen as offensive and communal.
What legal consequences has Shah faced?
The Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered police to file an FIR against Shah under Section 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for potentially endangering national unity.
Why is Colonel Sofia Qureshi significant in this context?
Colonel Qureshi is a senior Indian Army officer who conducted press briefings for Operation Sindoor, earning praise for her professionalism and representing India’s military resolve.
