Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 16 (ANI): Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC has spoken in defence of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi while criticising Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah for making controversial remarks against the lady officer, saying that it was 'deplorable' for any leader to comment on her, asking the 'loudmouths' to 'shut up'.

'It's deplorable for any leader to comment on Col Sofiya Qureshi. From 2004 to 2006, she was a platoon commander, leading over 30 soldiers in field operations. She was with the UN peacekeeping mission in Congo from 2007 to 2009, where she worked on conflict resolution, community support, and security management... This is Sofiya Qureshi,' Shaina NC told ANI.

She said that defaming Sofiya Qureshi was unacceptable to Indians.

'You have leaders from political parties choosing to defame her, based on her gender, based on her caste, creed, and community, is not acceptable to any Indian. We salute Sofiya Qureshi...as far as the loudmouths go, please shut up,' the Shiv Sena leader said.

Following an FIR being registered against Madhya Pradesh Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah over his objectionable remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati demanded strict action against him.

She trained guns on those making 'uncivilised and indecent' remarks targeting Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, saying that such statements would 'destroy the good atmosphere' being celebrated due to the success of Operation Sindoor against Pakistan.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court criticised Shah for his remarks, saying that the minister must speak with 'responsibility.' A bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice Augustus George Masih said a person holding a constitutional office should be responsible when this country is going through such a situation, and must know what he is saying.

At the outset, CJI asked, 'What kind of statement are you making? Such a person holding a constitutional office should be responsible...'

'When this country is going through such a situation... He has to know what he is saying. Just because you are a minister,' said Justice Gavai.

The MP High Court had said that if the FIR is not registered by Wednesday evening, the court may contemplate proceeding against the Director General of Police of the State for contempt of the order.

The controversy arose after a video clip of Shah's speech went viral on social media. In his clarification, Shah said his comments were taken out of context and were meant to praise Colonel Qureshi's bravery. (ANI)