To protest against a controversial statement made by State Minister Vijay Shah about a decorated Army officer, the Shankar Shah Block Congress Committee staged a protest and burnt the effigy of Shah at Lal Kuan, Polipathar. The Congressmen staged protest following the directions of former State Finance Minister Tarun Bhanot. They condemned the Minister’s objectionable remarks and demanded his immediate dismissal from the State Cabinet. Congressmen stated that anyone who cannot distinguish between military personnel and terrorists is unfit for public office.

 

Congress leaders also alleged that Minister Vijay Shah’s comment, referring to Colonel Sofiya Qureshi reflects the arrogance of power and a deep disrespect for the armed forces. They said the statement, made from a public platform is not only condemnable but also inhumane. The Congress leaders emphasised that this is not the first time a ruling party leader has made derogatory comments about courageous and respectable members of the armed forces and police. Prominent among those present in the protest were Pramod Patel, Mintu Mishra, Sachin Bajpai, Abhishek Pathak and several party workers.