The Supreme Court of India has come down heavily on Madhya Pradesh Tribal Welfare Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah over his controversial comments allegedly aimed at Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a senior Indian Army officer. The remarks, made during a public speech on April 12 in Mau, have been widely condemned for being communal, gendered, and derogatory in nature. Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, who presided over the two-judge bench hearing the matter, described Shah’s remarks as “unacceptable and insensitive,” emphasizing that public officials must maintain decorum and uphold the dignity of their office.
In sharp criticism, the Chief Justice remarked, “What sort of comments are you making? You should show some sense of sensibility. Go and apologise in the High Court.” The top court made it clear that individuals occupying constitutional positions cannot use their influence as a shield for irresponsible speech, particularly during sensitive national circumstances. The bench refused to grant interim protection from arrest, underscoring that the matter would be heard in detail on Friday.
High Court Orders FIR, Calls Remarks Dangerous and Disparaging
The controversy stems from a speech Shah delivered at a public event, where he referred to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. In his attempt to highlight the Indian military’s response, Shah claimed that Prime Minister Modi had “sent their sister” — a comment widely understood to target Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who has been a visible figure in media briefings on Operation Sindoor. While Shah did not name her directly, the insinuation was unmistakable.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court at Jabalpur, taking cognizance of the public outrage and legal implications, ordered the state’s Director General of Police to register an FIR against Shah the same day. The bench, comprising Justices Atul Sreedharan and Anuradha Shukla, strongly condemned the minister’s comments, calling them “cancerous and dangerous” and “disparaging.” The court warned that any delay in filing the FIR would attract contempt proceedings.
Minister Seeks Protection, Court Declines Immediate Relief
Senior Advocate Vibha Datta Makhija, appearing on behalf of the minister, informed the Supreme Court that Shah had already apologised. However, the Chief Justice remained unimpressed and advised the minister to tender a formal apology before the High Court. When Makhija requested that proceedings be paused until the matter is heard by the apex court, the bench retorted, “Nothing will happen in a day. You know who you are.”
The court’s refusal to stay the High Court’s order signifies a growing intolerance towards public officials using inflammatory language under the guise of political rhetoric. It further reflects the judiciary’s recognition of the armed forces as an institution deserving of respect and immunity from politicised attacks.
Political Repercussions and Public Backlash
The incident has sparked backlash across party lines, with veterans, civil society, and members of the ruling BJP expressing disappointment. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reportedly reprimanded Shah and summoned him to the BJP state headquarters. BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Hitanand Sharma met with the minister following the fallout, reportedly advising him to refrain from such remarks in the future.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who has emerged as a prominent face in national briefings, is known for her professional integrity and service. The targeting of a serving Army officer in such a manner has ignited a larger conversation about accountability in public discourse and the responsibilities of elected representatives.
As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the matter in full, it has sent a clear message: constitutional offices come with responsibility, and the sanctity of institutions like the Indian Army must not be compromised for political gain.
