Nation

IIE Digital Desk : Madhya Pradesh Tribal Welfare Minister Vijay Shah has issued a public apology following widespread condemnation over his controversial remarks directed at Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a distinguished Indian Army officer known for her role in briefing the nation during Operation Sindoor.

During a public event near Indore, Shah made statements implying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sent "a sister from their [the terrorists'] community" to retaliate against those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. These comments were perceived as communal and derogatory, sparking outrage across political and social spectrums.

In response to the backlash, Shah expressed deep regret, stating, "Sister Sofiya has brought glory to India by rising above caste and religion. She is more respected than our own sister. I salute her for her service to the nation. We cannot even think of insulting her in our dreams. Still, if my words have hurt society and religion, then I am ready to apologise ten times." 

The opposition, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai, demanded Shah's immediate dismissal, labeling his remarks as "derogatory, shameful, and vulgar." BSP chief Mayawati also condemned the statements, urging strict action to maintain communal harmony and uphold the dignity of India's armed forces. 

Within the BJP, Shah faced reprimand from party leadership. He was summoned to the state headquarters in Bhopal, where he was reportedly admonished for his remarks. 

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a trailblazing officer in the Indian Army Corps of Signals since 1999, gained national prominence in 2016 as the first woman to lead a multinational military exercise. Her recent role in Operation Sindoor, where she provided regular press briefings alongside other senior officials, has been widely lauded.