Daijiworld Media Network – Pachmarhi (MP)

Pachmarhi (MP), Jun 15: In a strong message aimed at upholding discipline within the party ranks, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday reminded BJP leaders that restraint in speech is a key virtue in politics, cautioning against making controversial remarks that could tarnish the party’s image.

Shah was addressing a gathering of legislators and parliamentarians at the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) three-day training camp at Pachmarhi, nestled in the scenic hills of Madhya Pradesh’s Narmadapuram district. Also present was Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav, who echoed similar sentiments.

The stern advisory comes in the backdrop of a recent controversy involving Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah, whose remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a key spokesperson during Operation Sindoor, drew widespread condemnation for being derogatory and communal in tone.

Speaking in clear terms, Amit Shah stated, "Mistakes may occur, but repetition of such conduct is unacceptable. No matter how senior or experienced a leader is, one must always remain a student of discipline and dignity."

Yadav, reinforcing the need for thoughtful speech, remarked, “In politics, the biggest damage is often caused by overreaction. In an era where every word can go viral, silence at times is more powerful.”

The controversy erupted after Minister Vijay Shah, at a public event in Indore’s Raikunda village on May 12, made remarks against Colonel Qureshi, using language that the Madhya Pradesh High Court described as "gutter-level." The court directed police to register a case against the minister, citing sections related to promoting enmity and hatred.

While Shah later apologised, stating he was ready to do so “ten times,” the matter snowballed, attracting criticism from the Supreme Court, which stressed that individuals holding public office must exercise verbal restraint and responsibility.

The Madhya Pradesh police have now formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the incident.

The Pachmarhi training camp aims to strengthen the ideological foundation of the BJP, train elected representatives in effective communication, and reinforce the values that the party stands for.

As part of the training protocol, 165 MLAs, 29 Lok Sabha MPs, and 7 Rajya Sabha MPs from the state have been instructed to refrain from mobile phone usage during sessions to maintain focus. Sessions include topics on the BJP’s legacy, social media ethics, and public conduct.

State Cabinet Minister Karan Verma, speaking on the sidelines, confirmed that Shah’s remarks were a clear signal to Vijay Shah and others to learn from the episode. “He emphasised that while errors can occur, repeating them will not be tolerated. The party’s image comes first,” Verma added.

With its national leadership laying emphasis on discipline, measured speech, and responsible governance, the BJP appears keen to course-correct from within and reinforce its commitment to dignity in public life — especially in a politically charged environment.