The Madhya Pradesh government's selection of minister Vijay Shah as the chief guest for the Republic Day flag-hoisting ceremony in Ratlam has ignited a significant political controversy. The Congress party has strongly objected to this decision, citing Shah's previous controversial remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who was involved in the Operation Sindoor press briefing, and the subsequent scrutiny by the Supreme Court.
Congress Voices Strong Opposition
Congress state spokesperson Santosh Gautam expressed deep concern over the government's choice. "The responsibility of hoisting the Tricolour in Ratlam is being given to a minister like Vijay Shah, who used indecent and insulting words against the daughter of the country and brave Indian Army officer Colonel Sophia Qureshi," Gautam stated emphatically. He further highlighted that the Supreme Court has intervened in the matter, setting a deadline for the government regarding prosecution sanction for Shah.
BJP's Defense and Ongoing Investigations
In response to the criticism, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the government's decision while acknowledging the ongoing investigations. State party spokesperson Yashpal Singh Sisodiya clarified the government's position, stating, "The government has itself taken note of Shah's statement and constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT)." He added that the SIT is scheduled to submit its reply to the Supreme Court within the next two weeks, indicating that due process is being followed.
Broader Implications and Political Tensions
This incident has escalated political tensions in Madhya Pradesh, with the Congress party leveraging the controversy to question the BJP-led government's judgment and commitment to respecting military personnel. The timing of this decision, just ahead of Republic Day celebrations, has added symbolic weight to the dispute, making it a focal point for political discourse in the state.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance between political appointments and public sentiment, particularly when involving figures with contentious backgrounds. As the SIT prepares its report for the Supreme Court, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds and what impact it may have on future government decisions regarding ceremonial roles.
