India’s growing zero tolerance policy, especially intensified during Modi’s tenure, has fueled a wave of extremism targeting individuals and symbols perceived as controversial—often with a sharp intolerance toward Muslims. This climate is visible in the backlash against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, the criticism faced by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri over a ceasefire with Pakistan, and the vandalism of Karachi Bakery. Reflecting on history, Muhammad Ali Jinnah once warned that while Muslims would continually prove their Indian identity, they would never be fully spared from discrimination. These incidents reveal how nationalism is being weaponized, blurring the lines between patriotism and extremism in today’s India.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi Faces Political Backlash
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a senior officer in the Indian Army, has become the center of a heated political storm. The controversy erupted after India’s recent military operations against Pakistan. During this period of heightened nationalism, Madhya Pradesh BJP minister Vijay Shah made a shocking statement. He referred to Colonel Sofiya as a “sister of terrorists.”
His derogatory remark triggered immediate and widespread condemnation. Ex-servicemen in Sultanpur held protests, demanding Shah’s arrest. They raised slogans and carried banners expressing their outrage. The incident quickly caught national attention.
The matter even reached the Supreme Court of India. Shah sought interim relief from legal action, but the court rejected his request. This legal blow added more weight to public criticism against the minister.
Many prominent voices in civil society, including retired army officers, journalists, and activists, defended Colonel Sofiya. They praised her professional service and condemned the attempt to politicize her identity and role.
Karachi Bakery Vandalized Amid Nationalist Protests
In Hyderabad, another symbol came under fire. Karachi Bakery, a well-known bakery established in 1953, was vandalized by members of the BJP. The attackers demanded the bakery change its name due to its perceived connection to Pakistan.
The bakery was founded by a Sindhi Hindu family who migrated from Karachi during the Partition. For decades, the brand stood as a culinary heritage of both cultural memory and Indian entrepreneurship.
Despite this, it became a target of nationalist aggression. The owners clarified that Karachi Bakery is a 100 percent Indian brand. They stated their loyalty lies firmly with India. Yet the protests reflect how public perception can be manipulated during times of Indo-Pak tension.
Vikram Misri Faces Backlash Over Ceasefire Announcement
Despite the diplomatic significance of the ceasefire, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri faced considerable backlash within India. Critics from nationalist circles accused him of compromising national security and showing weakness against Pakistan. Some right-wing commentators claimed the move undermined the sacrifices of Indian soldiers and sent a message of appeasement.
Social media campaigns trended under hashtags questioning the timing and intent of the agreement. Several political leaders from the opposition supported the ceasefire as a step toward peace, but hardliners within the ruling coalition remained vocally critical.
Veterans groups were split — some welcomed the de-escalation, while others expressed concern over what they saw as a pattern of mixed messaging from the government. Misri remained firm in defending the ceasefire, stating that diplomacy is essential to prevent further loss of life and ensure regional stability.
Not Isolated Incidents
These recent incidents are not isolated. India has seen a consistent pattern where nationalism, military conflict, and political agendas collide.
1. Targeting of Pakistani-Associated Businesses
In 2019, after the Pulwama attack, another Karachi Bakery outlet in Bengaluru faced protests. Nationalist groups demanded the removal of the word “Karachi” from the signboard. The bakery had no political link, but its name alone sparked outrage.
In the same year, Kashmiri vendors and shopkeepers in cities like Dehradun, Lucknow, and Delhi were harassed. Many were asked to leave their rental spaces. Their only fault was belonging to a region under scrutiny.
2. Military Officers Caught in Political Crossfires
General Bipin Rawat, during his term from 2016 to 2019, made several comments on internal political matters. He criticized anti-CAA protests and made remarks on Kashmir stone pelters. His views drew criticism, with many accusing him of blurring the line between military service and politics.
Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman became a national hero after his 2019 capture and release by Pakistan. However, his face and story were soon plastered across election posters and campaign ads. Critics argued his bravery was being exploited for votes.
3. Inflammatory Political Statements
Vijay Shah’s statement against Colonel Sofiya is not the first. Politicians have often made extreme remarks about military personnel. In 2017, BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj blamed population growth on a specific community after a soldier’s death. This communal spin provoked anger among citizens.
Such comments often seek to polarize public opinion. Instead of honoring service and sacrifice, they push divisive narratives.
4. Election Campaigns Based on Military Actions
In recent years, military successes like the Balakot airstrikes have been used during political rallies. Posters, speeches, and even digital campaigns featured imagery of soldiers and airstrikes.
This trend has raised concerns from veterans and the Election Commission of India. Many argue that the military should remain apolitical, and its actions should not be used to gather votes.
Read: Kangana Ranaut Lands in Hot Water Over Modi-Trump Tweet
A Troubling Trend
The backlash against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, the vandalism of Karachi Bakery, and the political noise around the ceasefire all signal a deeper issue. Nationalism, when unchecked, often turns symbols and people into battlegrounds for ideology.
In India, both civilians and soldiers have become targets when their identities don’t fit political narratives. A bakery with a name from Partition history or a Muslim woman officer can quickly become controversial.
Militarism has become a political tool. Inflammatory rhetoric replaces reasoned debate. Businesses and individuals with perceived Pakistani links become scapegoats. This is not patriotism—it’s opportunism dressed in tricolor.
If India aims to be a stable democracy, it must draw clear lines. Respect for the armed forces must not be conditional. Political leaders must be held accountable for divisive speech. And citizens, regardless of their origin, religion, or business name, must be treated with dignity.
The nation must decide: Will it allow nationalism to erode unity, or will it rise above and stand for justice, peace, and mutual respect?
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