New Delhi, May 14 — The National Commission for Women (NCW) has strongly denounced derogatory comments allegedly made against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, emphasizing the need for respect towards women serving in the armed forces.
Although NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar did not mention any individual by name, her statement followed a controversy surrounding Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah’s purported remarks targeting Colonel Qureshi. The remarks triggered widespread outrage across political and social circles.
"It is regrettable that such statements are being made by some responsible persons that are derogatory and unacceptable towards women. This not only hurts the dignity of women in our society but is also an insult to the daughters of the nation who are playing an important role in the security of the country," Rahatkar said on X.
Referring to Colonel Qureshi, she added, "Dear Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is a proud daughter of this nation, a sister of all country-loving Indians, who has served the country with courage and dedication. The nation is proud of brave women like her, and such derogatory statements must be strongly condemned."
The Congress party shared a video in which Vijay Shah is purportedly heard saying, "'Jinhone humari betiyon ke sindoor ujade the… humne unhiki behen bhej kar ke unki aisi ki taisi karwayi'," a remark widely perceived as targeting Qureshi. Following the backlash, Shah said, "If my words have hurt society and religion, then I am ready to apologise ten times."
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi had recently represented the Indian armed forces in press briefings on Operation Sindoor, alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. The operation was launched in retaliation for the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives.
Highlighting broader societal progress, Rahatkar also pointed to the recent CBSE examination results where girls outshone boys across several metrics. "To move towards a progressive nation, women must move ahead and lead in every field," she stated.
Calling for dignity in public discourse, the NCW chairperson urged all sections of society to adopt respectful language and behavior towards women. "Underestimating the participation and contribution of women is not only unacceptable but also an obstacle to the country's development," she added.