Colonel Sofia Qureshi's family steals spotlight at PM Modi's Vadodara roadshow after Operation Sindoor
Colonel Sofia Qureshi's family was present during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's roadshow in Vadodara, Gujarat, on Monday morning. Colonel Qureshi, known for her leadership in Operation Sindoor, has been widely acknowledged as a symbol of strength in the armed forces. Her family was among the thousands who turned out to see the Prime Minister during his first visit to Gujarat following the operation.
Family attends roadshow, PM Modi bows in acknowledgement
Prime Minister Modi's roadshow began at Vadodara airport and continued to the Air Force Station. Thousands lined the kilometre-long route waving the Indian flag and showering flowers. Among them were Colonel Qureshi's parents, Taj Mohammad Qureshi and Halima Qureshi, along with her twin sister Shyna Sunsara and brother Sanjay Qureshi.Ms Sunsara described their presence as a moment of pride. She said PM Modi bowed toward them during the roadshow, and they returned the gesture. 'It felt like he was sending a message that no one needs to fear—we are all together,' she told reporters.
#WATCH | Gujarat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a roadshow in Vadodara.(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/H11WcDiVyF
Family reflects on Colonel Qureshi's role and PM's gesture
Ms Sunsara, who was born just 15 minutes after Colonel Qureshi, spoke of the inspiration she draws from her sister's service. 'She's not just my sister anymore—she belongs to the country,' she said. She also acknowledged PM Modi's efforts in promoting women's empowerment.Taj Mohammad Qureshi said the Prime Minister recognised and greeted the family, and Halima Qureshi added that they welcomed him with flowers. 'She is not only our daughter but the daughter of this country,' she said.
A symbolic moment after Operation Sindoor
Sanjay Qureshi, Colonel Qureshi's brother, called the experience of seeing the Prime Minister 'a great pleasure.' Speaking of his sister's contribution, he said, 'A woman taking a stand for other women—there's nothing more powerful than that.' He credited the Indian defence forces and the government for giving her the opportunity and added that the country cannot progress without women's empowerment.
Prime Minister Modi later posted online expressing his gratitude to the people of Vadodara: 'Extremely delighted to be in this great city... Gratitude to all those who showered their blessings.'
He is currently on a two-day visit to Gujarat, where he will inaugurate development projects worth Rs 82,000 crore, launch two Vande Bharat trains from Dahod, and hold two more roadshows.
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