Controversy Erupts as Madhya Pradesh Minister's Comments Spark Outrage Over Army Respect

A political storm has erupted in Madhya Pradesh following Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda's remarks suggesting that the nation has 'bowed down' to Prime Minister Modi. The Congress party has condemned these comments as disrespectful to the armed forces, leading to a heated exchange between political factions. Devda later clarified that he intended to honor the army's valor during Operation Sindoor. This incident follows previous controversies involving other ministers, raising questions about the BJP's treatment of military respect. The situation continues to unfold as Congress demands accountability and action against those making derogatory remarks about the army.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2025, 20:03 IST

Political Fallout from Remarks on Army Valor

Jabalpur: The Deputy Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Jagdish Devda, stirred controversy on Friday by stating that the nation, along with its military personnel, has 'bowed down' to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This remark was met with backlash from the Congress party, which labeled it a disrespect to the armed forces' bravery.

Devda later clarified that his comments were misinterpreted, asserting that he intended to convey that the citizens have shown respect to the army following its commendable performance during Operation Sindoor.

The uproar coincided with criticism directed at another Madhya Pradesh minister, Vijay Shah, for his comments regarding Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who participated in media briefings about Operation Sindoor alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh.

While addressing Civil Defence volunteers in Jabalpur, Devda expressed gratitude towards the Prime Minister, stating, 'The entire nation, its army, and soldiers are 'natmastak' (with heads bowed) at his feet.' He emphasized the need to applaud Modi for the army's response to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.

Devda remarked on the public's anger following the Pahalgam attack, where tourists were targeted based on their religion, and noted that the nation felt relief after the military's retaliation against terrorist bases in Pakistan.

In light of Devda's remarks, Congress intensified its criticism of the BJP, accusing the party of consistently undermining the military's dignity.

In a subsequent interview in Indore, Devda expressed disappointment over the distortion of his words, clarifying that he was referring to the respect the Indian Army commands from the populace due to its valor.

He accused Congress leaders of misrepresenting his statement out of envy and suggested that legal measures should be taken against those distorting his words.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra condemned the BJP's treatment of the army, labeling it shameful. She highlighted the need for accountability, especially after the derogatory comments made by Madhya Pradesh ministers.

During a press conference in New Delhi, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate showcased a video of Devda's comments, questioning how anyone could utter such disrespectful words about the armed forces.

She praised the military's historical achievements and emphasized that their sacrifices deserve utmost respect, stating that such remarks are intolerable.

Shrinate called for immediate action against Devda, warning that failure to do so would imply Modi's endorsement of the comments.

The Congress party has also demanded the resignation of Minister Vijay Shah following his controversial remarks regarding the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack.