BJP leader and Uttar Pradesh Women’s Commission Vice Chairperson Aparna Yadav on Wednesday strongly condemned the controversial remarks made by Madhya Pradesh Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a key army officer involved in Operation Sindoor.
“Such comments are regrettable. He should not have said this on a public platform. He should apologise,” Yadav told reporters, praising Colonel Qureshi’s role and courage during the military operation.
“We have shown the world that India will not tolerate terrorism. The Prime Minister has worked tirelessly to eliminate it, unlike during Congress rule, where terrorists were often released,” she added.
The controversy erupted after Shah, during a public address, commented on Colonel Qureshi’s leadership during the operation, saying:
“Those who widowed our daughters [in Pahalgam], we sent a sister of their own to teach them a lesson.”
The remark, perceived as sexist and inappropriate, went viral on social media and drew widespread criticism.
Facing backlash, Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah issued a public apology, saying:
“I am not a God; I’m too human, and I apologise ten times.”
The Madhya Pradesh BJP unit, led by state president VD Sharma, also took swift action, acknowledging the gravity of the incident.
“The BJP leadership is very sensitive. The party took cognisance of the issue immediately and warned the minister. No one has the right to speak in such a manner. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is the daughter of the country, and the entire nation salutes her bravery,” said Sharma.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who gained nationwide recognition after leading media briefings during Operation Sindoor, has emerged as a symbol of India’s growing strength and diversity in the armed forces. Her role in the operation, which targeted terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK, has been widely praised.