KBC Faces Flak Operation Sindoor Episode Heartfelt Tribute or Political Showpiece

KBC’s Independence Day Special Featuring Operation Sindoor Officers Sofiya Qureshi, Vyomika Singh Sparks Political and Public Row


An upcoming Kaun Banega Crorepati Independence Day special became a flashpoint after teasers unveiled the presence of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi (Indian Army) and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh (Indian Air Force).

Both are central characters in Operation Sindoor, the exercise against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan in the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

The episode, which will be telecast on August 15, also has Commander Prerna Deosthalee (Indian Navy) on it. Host Amitabh Bachchan is shown in the promo welcoming the officers on the grand set of the quiz show, dressed up for the national event.



Operation Sindoor in the Limelight

The three officers are likely to present their experiences from the high-profile Operation Sindoor, which was carried out a few months ago. Colonel Sofiya and Wing Commander Vyomika had spoken to the media when the operation was underway, and therefore, they have been the public face of the military action.

The producers have framed the episode as a tribute to the armed forces with the intent to inspire the audience through tales of valour and service.

Political and Public Criticism

The move has polarized opinions. While a section of social media users appreciated the gesture as a befitting tribute, others have termed it a ‘political PR stunt’ by the ruling dispensation.

“This is just unbelievable. Operation Sindoor heroes on national TV just because one party wants to milk votes?” one user wrote on X. Another said, “Our Army was sacrosanct, above politics. Today, serving soldiers are being paraded for political branding.”

Opposition Weighs In

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi indicated there might be a commercial agenda, noting that the broadcaster of the show, Sony Pictures Networks India, also owns Asia Cup cricket rights until 2031. “Yes, the same channel is making money from India vs Pakistan matches. Now connect the dots,” she posted on X.

Protocol Questions Linger

The appearance has also been criticized over whether it is compliant with the armed forces’ rules. Under service conventions, uniforms are normally avoided in social and commercial settings except when the event is officially organized or in connection with formal military activities. 

Headgear should also not be brought indoors, including to such an event. The Defence Ministry has remained silent on officially stating whether approval was given for the incident.

Anticipation and Aftermath

The special should attract substantial Independence Day viewership. Whether viewers will perceive it as a celebration of national service or a politicized spectacle can hang on the official reaction and the way the officers’ stories are presented during the broadcast.