Union Ministers Amit Shah and Bhupendra Yadav have warned BJP leaders against making controversial statements. They said that leaders should be careful with their words and sometimes it’s better to stay silent.
Both ministers spoke during a three-day BJP training camp in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh. Their comments came after BJP leader and state minister Vijay Shah made a controversial statement about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, which sparked public outrage. Vijay Shah later apologized for his comments.
Amit Shah said, “Everyone makes mistakes, but they must not be repeated.” He also reminded leaders that no matter how senior they become, they should keep learning.
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Bhupendra Yadav added that reacting without thinking and speaking too much can damage the party’s image. “In today’s time, every word is magnified. So, political leaders must speak with restraint,” he said.
Last month, Vijay Shah had commented on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who was part of the media briefing team during Operation Sindoor, launched after the Pahalgam terror attack. His remarks were seen as offensive, communal, and disrespectful.
He had said that Prime Minister Modi had “sent their sister” to retaliate against terrorists, referring to Colonel Qureshi, and used language that was widely criticised. His speech was made at a local event in Indore on May 12.
After public backlash, Vijay Shah said he was ready to apologize “10 times”. However, the Madhya Pradesh High Court strongly criticized him for using “gutter language” and ordered an FIR to be filed against him for promoting hatred. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was also formed to look into the matter.
Even the Supreme Court expressed concern and said that people holding high positions must speak responsibly.
The BJP training camp in Pachmarhi, attended by 165 MLAs and 36 MPs from Madhya Pradesh, is focused on teaching leaders about the party’s history, communication skills, and use of social media. Participants have also been asked not to use their phones during the sessions to stay focused.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to give the final speech at the camp.
