A fresh political controversy erupted in Madhya Pradesh on Friday after Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda made a statement suggesting that the Indian Army and its soldiers are bowing at the feet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The remark, made during a civil defence training session in Jabalpur, has triggered strong reactions from opposition parties, especially the Congress.
Devda’s comments come amid a politically sensitive time, with ongoing scrutiny over the BJP’s recent rhetoric and public statements on national security.
The Viral Statement: What Did Jagdish Devda Say?
While addressing civil defence volunteers, Deputy CM Jagdish Devda stated:
“Pradhanmantri ji ko bhi dhanyawad dena chahenge, aur pura desh, desh ki wo sena, wo sainik, unke charno mein natmastak hain. Unke charno mein pura desh natmastak hai. Unhone jo jawab diya hai.”
Translation: “We would also like to thank the Prime Minister; the entire country, the country’s Army, its soldiers are bowing at his feet. The entire country is bowing at his feet—for the retaliatory response.”
The statement was caught on video and rapidly shared on social media, drawing widespread criticism and sparking a political firestorm.
Congress Slams BJP, Says Statement Is an Insult to the Armed Forces
The Congress party swiftly condemned the remarks, calling them a “blatant insult” to the honour and independence of the Indian Armed Forces. Senior Congress leaders accused the BJP of politicising the military for electoral gains and undermining the apolitical nature of the Army.
Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said,
“This is not only unacceptable but deeply disturbing. Our Army is an institution of national pride and integrity. It bows to the Constitution, not to any political leader.”
The party has demanded an official apology from both the BJP and Jagdish Devda, along with clarification from Prime Minister Modi himself.
Jagdish Devda Responds: Says Remarks Were ‘Twisted’
Following the backlash, Jagdish Devda defended himself, claiming that his statement had been taken out of context and “twisted for political motives.” He stated that he intended to praise the bravery of the soldiers and the leadership of the Prime Minister in responding to recent security threats, not to demean the Armed Forces.
“I respect our jawans and officers immensely. My statement was only to highlight the unity of the nation in supporting the leadership that responded to external threats. I never meant to undermine the Army’s dignity,” said Devda in a follow-up statement.
Political Impact: BJP Under Pressure
This incident adds to the BJP’s recent string of controversies in Madhya Pradesh, following an earlier remark by a state minister referring to Col. Sofiya Qureshi as the “sister of terrorists.” The opposition is now using these remarks to paint the ruling party as disrespectful toward the military and minorities.
Political analysts believe that such statements could harm the BJP’s image ahead of upcoming local and national elections, especially as the public’s trust in the armed forces remains a cornerstone of Indian democracy.
Civil Defence Event Overshadowed by Political Drama
The event at which Devda made the controversial statement was originally intended to train civil defence volunteers in disaster response and public safety. However, the Deputy CM’s political rhetoric quickly overshadowed the program's objective, drawing attention away from public service to political damage control.
Final Thoughts: National Institutions Must Remain Apolitical
The incident raises broader concerns about the increasing politicisation of the armed forces in India. Experts and retired military officers have often cautioned political leaders against dragging the Army into political discourse, stressing the importance of maintaining the force’s apolitical and professional character.
As debates heat up, one thing is clear: the Indian Army belongs to the nation, not to any individual or party. Statements that imply otherwise are likely to face strong public and political scrutiny.