Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: A delegation of the Madhya Pradesh Congress filed a police complaint on Wednesday against state cabinet minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, accusing him of making an objectionable remark about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who played a key role in Operation Sindoor. The Congress party has demanded Shah’s immediate dismissal and warned of state-wide protests if no action is taken within 24 hours.
Led by Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari, the delegation submitted a written complaint at Shyamla Hills Police Station in Bhopal, requesting that an FIR be registered against Shah for his controversial comments.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Cyber), Sujit Tiwari, confirmed receipt of the complaint:
“A Congress delegation has submitted a written application regarding Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah and a complaint is being registered. We have taken written applications and recorded their statements. We are further investigating the matter.”
When asked about the status of the FIR, he explained:
“According to the provisions of new laws, first the authenticity of the application has to be verified within 14 days and it is being investigated. Further action will be initiated post investigation.”
Outside the police station, Jitu Patwari addressed the media, strongly criticizing the BJP leadership:
“Following the remark of Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, we have lodged an FIR against him. In his address to the nation, PM Modi said that he is proud of the valour of the armed forces… But a BJP minister gave such a remark, you have not paid attention to it. It shows the difference between what you say and what you act. Why was he not dismissed in 24 hours?”
Patwari also questioned the silence of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav:
“A minister of his cabinet insulted the officers of the army and sisters. Why is the BJP silent on this? If he is not dismissed within 24 hours, we will lodge an FIR against Kunwar Vijay Shah in all the police stations across the state.”
In Indore district, Congress leaders also submitted a memorandum to Inspector General of Police Anurag, reiterating their demand for legal action against the minister.
Adding fuel to the political fire, Congress woman councillor Yashasvi Patel announced a reward of ₹51,000 for anyone who blackens the minister’s face.
The controversy began after Kunwar Vijay Shah made remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who had briefed the media during the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. Facing intense backlash, Shah issued a public apology.
Speaking to media, Shah said:
“My entire background is from the military. Many of my family members were martyred and were in the military… Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is above my real sister, who performed the national religion and took revenge on those people. She (Qureshi) is more important than my real sister.”
He continued:
“I had nothing in my mind; if something slipped out of the excitement and hurt someone, then I would like to apologise from the heart. Not once, but I apologise ten times.”
“I am a patriotic man, and people of every community worked for the nation. If something slipped out in anger and someone felt bad, I would like to say that I am not a god but a human being. I apologise ten times for it.”
Despite the apology, Congress leaders insist that mere words are not enough, and that accountability through legal and political action is essential.