Madhya Pradesh Minister Faces Backlash Over Remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi
Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
Madhya Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah has ignited a firestorm with inflammatory comments targeting Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a senior Indian Army officer. The remarks, made during a public event in Ramkunda village near Indore on May 13, 2025, alluded to Qureshi as the “sister of terrorists” in connection with the Pahalgam terror attack response, Operation Sindoor. The statements have drawn sharp criticism for their derogatory and communal undertones.
Judicial Intervention
The Madhya Pradesh High Court took suo motu cognizance of Shah’s remarks, deeming them “scurrilous” and ordering the registration of an FIR for promoting enmity and hatred. The Supreme Court, on May 19, 2025, rejected Shah’s plea to stay the FIR, criticizing his comments as “filthy, crass, and shameful” and questioning the sincerity of his public apology. The apex court ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter.
SIT Investigation Underway
On May 20, 2025, the Madhya Pradesh Police constituted a three-member SIT, led by Inspector General Pramod Verma, with Deputy Inspector General Kalyan Chakravarty and Superintendent of Police Vahini Singh. The team is tasked with investigating the FIR and submitting a status report by May 28, 2025. The Supreme Court has stayed Shah’s arrest but mandated his full cooperation with the probe.
Political and Public Reaction
Opposition parties, led by Congress, have intensified demands for Shah’s resignation, accusing the state government of inaction. Social media posts reflect public outrage, with figures like Neha Singh Rathore and Waris Pathan condemning the remarks as an insult to the Indian Army and Qureshi’s community. The controversy has raised questions about ministerial accountability.
Shah’s Apology and BJP Response
Shah issued two apologies, stating he respects Qureshi “more than his own sister” and citing emotional distress over the Pahalgam attack. The Supreme Court dismissed these as insincere, while the BJP state leadership, including organizational secretary Hitanand Sharma, reprimanded Shah. Despite mounting pressure, no formal resignation demand has been issued by the state government.
Colonel Qureshi’s Role
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi gained prominence for her media briefings during Operation Sindoor, alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. Her role in communicating India’s military response to the Pahalgam attack made Shah’s remarks particularly contentious. The comments have been widely criticized for undermining a decorated officer’s dignity.
Potential Consequences
The SIT’s findings, due on May 28, 2025, will likely determine Shah’s political fate. While legal grounds for resignation remain pending, moral pressure is intensifying, with opposition leaders arguing the remarks disgrace the state. The Supreme Court’s close oversight ensures the case remains under scrutiny.
Broader Implications
The controversy highlights the need for responsible public discourse, particularly from constitutional officeholders. It also underscores ongoing tensions around communal rhetoric in Indian politics. The outcome of the SIT probe could set a precedent for handling similar incidents in the future.