Should Vijay Shah Be Removed from the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet?
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Synopsis
In a fervent demand for justice, Congress workers in Bhopal protested against BJP Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, calling for his removal from the Cabinet due to his derogatory remarks about Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. With the Supreme Court's involvement, the political tension rises as Congress threatens further action if Shah remains in office.
Key Takeaways
- Protest against Vijay Shah: Congress demands his removal.
- Colonel Sofiya Qureshi: The comments made against her sparked outrage.
- Supreme Court involvement: Court mandates prosecution decision within two weeks.
- Political tension: BJP faces backlash over its handling of the situation.
- Public sentiment: Growing dissatisfaction with government officials' accountability.
Bhopal, Jan 20 (NationPress) In a significant demonstration, Congress party members organized a protest in Bhopal on Tuesday, insisting that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government of Madhya Pradesh dismiss Tribal Affairs Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah. This demand arose in response to Shah's inflammatory comments about Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, which ignited public fury and widespread condemnation after the successful 'Operation Sindoor' in May of the previous year.
The protest was led by the State General Secretary of Congress, Amit Sharma, who was seen alongside a party worker wearing a mask symbolizing Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah. The protester was handcuffed and escorted from the Congress office to a police station. Demonstrators carried posters of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi emblazoned with slogans honoring the Indian Army.
Amit Sharma addressed the media, claiming that the BJP government was protecting Kunwar Vijay Shah, who had insulted Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.
“The Supreme Court has mandated the Madhya Pradesh government to initiate proceedings against state minister Kunwar Vijay Shah. Congress demands his immediate removal from the state Cabinet. If Shah is not dismissed, Congress will stage a protest at the Chief Minister's residence,” Sharma stated.
This protest follows the Supreme Court's reprimand of the Madhya Pradesh government for delaying action on the special investigation team (SIT) report related to Shah’s remarks against Colonel Qureshi.
On Monday, the apex court also instructed the Madhya Pradesh government to make a decision within two weeks regarding the authorization to prosecute Shah, who is under investigation by the SIT for his comments targeting Colonel Qureshi.
The Court acknowledged that the special investigation team (SIT) has completed its inquiry and submitted its final report. However, progress has been stalled pending mandatory approval from the state government as per Section 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which addresses the incitement of communal hatred.
Previously, when Shah's contentious remarks triggered a political uproar in the state, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had stated that the government would act according to the court's directives.
Point of View
It's essential to present both sides in the ongoing political clash in Madhya Pradesh. The protest by Congress workers reflects a significant public sentiment against perceived disrespect towards the armed forces. While the BJP government asserts adherence to judicial processes, the demand for accountability from public officials is crucial for maintaining democratic integrity.
NationPress
23/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protest by Congress workers in Bhopal?
The protest was ignited by controversial remarks made by BJP Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah against Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, which led to public outrage following 'Operation Sindoor' last year.
What actions did Congress threaten if Vijay Shah is not removed?
Congress warned of staging a protest at the Chief Minister's residence if Kunwar Vijay Shah is not dismissed from his ministerial position.
What role has the Supreme Court played in this situation?
The Supreme Court directed the Madhya Pradesh government to decide on prosecuting Kunwar Vijay Shah and criticized the government for delaying action on the SIT report.
