Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party chief Chirag Paswan has issued a strong rebuke against Madhya Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah for his controversial comments directed at Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.
The minister had allegedly referred to Colonel Qureshi as a ‘sister of terrorists’ during a public event on 12 May, sparking national outrage.
Speaking in Hajipur on Tuesday, Paswan said the statement was ‘shameful’ and unworthy of any public representative.
“No one is above the armed forces. We are safe because of their sacrifice. If someone, even a minister, compares a soldier with terrorists, it is condemnable,” he told reporters.
‘Would Have Expelled Him For Life’
Paswan clearly stated he would have expelled Vijay Shah permanently if he had been part of his party.
“Had a member of my party made such a statement, I would have removed them immediately and for life. As an NDA ally, I can only urge the Madhya Pradesh government to act decisively,” he added.
He reaffirmed his support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and said the NDA stood firmly by its vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, particularly in respecting India’s armed forces.
Legal Action & SIT Formation
In response to the controversy, Madhya Pradesh Police filed a case against Shah on 14 May.
The charges include serious sections of the Indian Penal Code: Section 152 (acts endangering national unity), Section 196(1)(b) (promoting enmity among groups), and Section 197(1)(c).
Following the Supreme Court’s direction, MP Director General of Police Kailash Makwana announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) late on Monday.
The three-member panel includes senior officers: IG Pramod Verma (Sagar Zone), DIG Kalyan Chakravarty (SAF Bhopal), and SP Vahini Singh (Dindori).
The issue stems from Shah’s remarks referencing military actions on the Pakistan border, during which he made offensive comments about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, one of the country’s distinguished officers.
The statement triggered public anger and prompted intervention from the judiciary.
Paswan’s remarks reflect a broader concern over the politicisation of defence personnel and the importance of maintaining respect for the armed forces.
He emphasised that such statements harm national unity and must be dealt with sternly, both politically and legally.
As the SIT begins its investigation, pressure mounts on the Madhya Pradesh government to take swift action and uphold the dignity of the armed forces.
Also Read: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For Remarks On ‘Operation Sindoor’; Alleges ‘Pakistan Propaganda’
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