Row Erupts Over MP Dy CM’s Remark That ‘Army Is Bowing at PM Modi’s Feet’; Congress Slams ‘Insult to Soldiers’

Bhopal: A fresh political controversy has erupted in Madhya Pradesh after Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda claimed that “the entire nation, including the Indian Army, is bowing at the feet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi”—a statement that has sparked outrage from the Opposition and raised questions about the politicization of the armed forces.

Speaking at a civil defense volunteers’ training event in Jabalpur, Devda praised Modi’s strong response to the Pahalgam terror attack and credited him with inspiring the military and the country alike. “Not just the nation, but the entire military is bowing at Modi’s feet for his tough stance against terrorism,” said Devda, prompting applause from the gathering. He emphasized that the Prime Minister’s leadership had instilled fear in Pakistan-based militant outfits and earned admiration even within the armed forces.

“After the horrifying incident in Pahalgam, where terrorists separated women from men and killed the men in front of their families after identifying their religion, the country demanded justice,” Devda added. “The Prime Minister has taken steps no previous government dared to, and the whole nation stands behind him.”

However, the comments have triggered a massive backlash from political opponents and civil society. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called the statement “deeply shameful and unfortunate,” accusing the BJP of repeatedly disrespecting India’s armed forces.

“In just days, one BJP leader made shameful remarks about a woman colonel, and now the Deputy CM says the army bows at the Prime Minister’s feet. This is an insult to the bravery, autonomy, and dedication of our soldiers,” she posted on X. “The BJP must clarify whether it endorses such statements and what message it is sending to the forces who risk their lives for the country.”

Congress has demanded an apology from Devda and action against him for politicizing the armed forces and diminishing their dignity. Party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate added, “The Indian Army serves the nation, not any political leader. Reducing their sacrifice to political sycophancy is unacceptable.”