APCC Files FIR Against MP Minister for Remarks on Colonel Sofia Qureshi

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has lodged a formal FIR against Madhya Pradesh Tribal Welfare Minister Kuwar Vijay Shah for allegedly making derogatory and inflammatory remarks against Colonel Sofia Qureshi, a decorated officer of the Indian Army. The complaint, filed at the Dispur Police Station by APCC Civic and Social Outreach Chairman Bandip Dutta, has intensified the political storm around the minister's controversial statement.

The remarks, made during a government function in Raikunda village, Indore, on May 12, have drawn widespread condemnation. A viral video shows Shah allegedly saying, "Those who have widowed our daughters, we have taught a lesson by sending a sister from their community." The APCC accuses the BJP leader of communalising the armed forces by linking Colonel Qureshi's religious identity with terrorism.

The FIR invokes multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)-Sections 152, 196(1)(b), and 197(1)(c)-which pertain to promoting enmity, spreading false statements, and endangering public order. The Congress party has demanded an immediate investigation and legal action against the minister.

In a media statement, Bandip Dutta said, "In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 innocent lives were lost, it is imperative that all 140 crore Indians unite in support of the Indian Army. At such a critical time, a sitting cabinet minister making divisive remarks against a serving officer is not only unacceptable but dangerous for national unity."

Dutta emphasized that the FIR was filed under the guidance of APCC President Bhupen Bora and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and urged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and BJP leaders in Assam to join in filing FIRs against Shah across every police station in the state.

"This is beyond politics," Dutta said. "It is a matter of national honour. We request all citizens to stand with the Indian Army and oppose any attempt to defame our soldiers based on religion or identity."

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