Bhopal, August 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Madhya Pradesh Congress veterans’ wing has demanded the immediate removal of Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah from the state Cabinet, along with strict legal action over his controversial remarks concerning Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.
At a press conference, veterans condemned the alleged remarks as an insult to a serving Army officer and said they had also undermined the dignity of the Indian Army and its personnel.
Veterans’ wing president Major General (Retd) Shyam Shrivastava said the comments had triggered widespread outrage and protests across the country. He described the remarks as particularly unfortunate in the backdrop of the nation’s appreciation of the Indian Army’s role during “Operation Sindoor”.
Shrivastava pointed out that the Madhya Pradesh High Court had taken suo motu cognisance of the matter and directed registration of an FIR against Shah. He said that despite the FIR and subsequent directions from the Supreme Court concerning investigation and necessary action, the follow-up had not met the expectations of veterans and members of the public.
The veterans’ wing also expressed concern over the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet’s reported decision at a recent meeting not to grant sanction for Shah’s prosecution while extending political support to him.
The organisation criticised the minister’s continued presence in the Cabinet, saying it could send an inappropriate message on an issue involving the armed forces.
“The Indian Army does not belong to any political party but to the entire nation,” Shrivastava said.
He maintained that derogatory remarks against an Army officer or soldier amounted to disrespect towards the sentiments of millions of citizens and the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces. Respect for the Army and its personnel, he said, should remain above political considerations.
The veterans demanded an impartial investigation and action strictly in accordance with law. They also warned that they would launch a democratic and peaceful street movement if timely steps were not taken to protect the dignity of the Army and the honour of veterans.
Shrivastava said the government would be held responsible if such a situation arose.
The controversy relates to remarks Shah is alleged to have made during a public meeting in Mhow near Indore on May 13, 2025.
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