New Delhi — The Supreme Court on Thursday sharply criticised Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah over his controversial remarks against Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who recently gained national attention after briefing the media on Operation Sindoor, a major military offensive against terror camps in Pakistan.
A bench headed by Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih took serious note of the minister’s comments, saying, “Holding a constitutional post, you should have shown restraint, particularly in such sensitive times for the nation.”
The apex court, while agreeing to hear Shah’s plea seeking a stay on the FIR filed against him, declined to interfere with the ongoing proceedings in the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The high court had, on May 14, taken suo motu cognisance of Shah’s remarks and directed the police to register an FIR against him under sections 152, 196(1)(b), and 197(1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Shah has approached the Supreme Court challenging the High Court’s directive. His counsel is expected to request an urgent hearing before the bench on Friday.
The controversy erupted after a video of Vijay Shah went viral on social media, in which he made objectionable comments regarding Col Qureshi’s media address on Operation Sindoor. Facing severe backlash, Shah claimed his remarks were misinterpreted and insisted he was actually praising Col Qureshi’s bravery.
“Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is above even my real sister. I honour her deeply for taking decisive action for the country. If my words hurt anyone in a moment of emotion, I sincerely apologise — not once but ten times,” Shah told ANI.
Despite his public apology, the Madhya Pradesh High Court remained firm, instructing the Director General of Police to ensure immediate registration of an FIR. The office of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav confirmed compliance with the court’s order.
The incident has sparked widespread political and public reaction, with many calling for greater accountability from those in power when commenting on armed forces personnel, especially during times of national conflict.
Meanwhile, Col Sofiya Qureshi continues to be lauded across the nation for her role in Operation Sindoor, which saw the Indian Air Force neutralise nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in a 23-minute precision strike that jammed enemy air defences.
