"Linguistic Mistake": BJP Minister Shah Apologises Again Over Remarks Against Col. Sofiya Qureshi ( image screen grab:x.com/KrVijayShah)
Bhopal: After Madhya Pradesh Police set up a SIT to probe Tribal Affairs Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah controversial remarks on Col Sofiya Qureshi, on Friday he once again announced a public apology and described his remarks as a “linguistic mistake.”
“I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the gruesome massacre that took place in Pahalgam a few days ago. I have always had immense love for my nation and respect for the Indian Army. The words spoken by me have hurt the community, religion and countrymen, it was my linguistic mistake,” Minister said in a video statement on X.
Also Read | BJP Minister Insults Colonel Sofia Qureshi: “Modi Ji Sent Their Sister…”
जयहिन्द,
पिछले दिनों पहलगाम में हुए जघन्य हत्याकांड से मैं मन से बहुत दुखी एवं विचलित हूँ, मेरा राष्ट्र के प्रति अपार प्रेम और भारतीय सेना के प्रति आदर एवं सम्मान हमेशा रहा है।
मेरे द्वारा कहे गये शब्दो से समुदाय, धर्म, देशवासियो को दुख पहुँचा है, यह मेरी भाषाई भूल थी, pic.twitter.com/3dU0Jt4QF6
— Dr. Kunwar Vijay Shah (@KrVijayShah) May 23, 2025
Shah further said that his intention was not to hurt any religion, caste or community. “I sincerely apologise to the entire Indian Army, Sister Colonel Sophia and all the countrymen for the words I said inadvertently and once again with folded hands I apologise,” Minister added.
Also Read |“Go And Apologise”: Supreme Court Slams Madhya Pradesh Minister For Remark Over Col Sofiya Qureshi
The controversy stems from Shah’s viral video clip, where he allegedly made inappropriate comments about Colonel Qureshi, who had recently briefed the media on Operation Sindoor, India’s military operation against Pakistan. Shah later claimed his remarks were misinterpreted and intended to praise her bravery.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court had earlier taken suo motu cognisance of the BJP MP’s comments and ordered the registration of an FIR under Sections 152, 196(1)(b), and 197(1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The FIR was filed after the HC warned of contempt proceedings if the state police failed to act. In response, Shah moved the Supreme Court seeking relief and a stay on the FIR, but the apex court ordered for a SIT probe instead.
