The Supreme Court on Thursday summoned Madhya Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah to explain the nature of his public comments targeting Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.
Shah has challenged a Madhya Pradesh High Court order directing registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against him over his allegedly derogatory statements.
Urgent Listing
Shah’s petition was mentioned for urgent listing before a two-judge bench led by Chief Justice B. R. Gavai alongside Justice Augustine George Masih. The bench set Shah’s plea down for hearing on Friday, May 16.
“What sort of statements are you making? You are a responsible minister of the government,” the Chief Justice remarked sharply, stressing the gravity of Shah’s position and public conduct.
Seeking Stay On FIR
Shah’s counsel informed the Court that the minister was seeking a stay on the FIR, registered for allegedly “promoting enmity and hatred.” The bench confirmed it would hear arguments on the plea on Friday.
Objectionable Remarks
The controversy erupted after a video clip of Shah went viral on social media. In it, the minister is heard making objectionable remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi—a decorated officer who, alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, was a prominent face of the Indian armed forces during media briefings on Operation Sindoor.
Court’s Strong Rebuke
The Madhya Pradesh High Court had taken suo motu cognizance of Shah’s statements, describing them as “scurrilous” and “language of the gutters.” The High Court castigated Shah for his “derogatory” tone and ordered the state police to file an FIR under Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses actions that promote enmity between different groups.
Minister’s Apology & Aftermath
Facing widespread condemnation, Shah issued a public apology soon after the High Court’s order. “If anyone is hurt by my statement, I am ready to apologise ten times,” he declared, adding, “I respect Colonel Qureshi more than my own sister.” Despite his apology, the High Court maintained that an FIR was warranted to uphold the rule of law and deter hate speech.
With the Supreme Court scheduled to hear Shah’s plea on May 16, all eyes are on whether the top judiciary will grant relief from the FIR or uphold the High Court’s directive.
The case underscores the judiciary’s willingness to intervene promptly when elected officials are accused of incendiary speech against members of the armed forces.
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