Will the Supreme Court Hear the Plea Against Col Sofiya Qureshi Remarks by MP Minister?
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Synopsis
On May 18, the Supreme Court is set to examine a petition from MP Minister Vijay Shah, who is contesting an FIR following his controversial remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. This case has ignited significant public interest and raised questions about the responsibilities of public officials.
Key Takeaways
- Supreme Court to review Vijay Shah's plea on May 19.
- Controversial remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi have drawn national attention.
- Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered an FIR against Shah.
- Public officials must exercise caution in their statements.
- Vijay Shah has issued a public apology amidst the controversy.
New Delhi, May 18 (NationPress) The Supreme Court is scheduled to review a petition on Monday from Madhya Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah, challenging a directive from the Madhya Pradesh High Court that mandated the registration of an FIR against him for his contentious remarks concerning Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.
According to the causelist on the apex court's website, a panel of Justices Surya Kant and N.K. Singh will address this issue on May 19.
Previously, on Friday (May 16), the Justice Kant-led panel was unable to hear Shah's special leave petition (SLP) because of time constraints, but they agreed to reschedule the hearing for Monday at the request of the petitioner.
The day before, during a request for urgent consideration of his SLP, a bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai criticized Shah for his inappropriate comments.
"What kind of statement are you (Shah) making? An individual in a constitutional position should maintain a level of decorum. Every statement made by a minister must carry weight and responsibility," remarked the CJI Gavai-led panel. In response, senior advocate Vibha Dutta Makhija, representing Vijay Shah, argued that the media sensationalized the minister's remarks and noted that Shah has already issued an apology. Makhija requested a temporary order to prevent any coercive actions against Shah regarding the FIR lodged under Sections 152, 196(1)(b), and 197 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Without issuing any interim directive, the CJI Gavai-led panel agreed to hear the case on May 16 and advised the senior lawyer to inform the Madhya Pradesh High Court about the SLP's rescheduling.
On May 14, the Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered the Director General of Police (DGP) to file a criminal case against Shah within four hours and cautioned the DGP against contempt should there be any delay. A panel of Justices Atul Sreedharan and Anuradha Shukla from the MP High Court determined that there was sufficient evidence for an offence that promotes hostility among different castes, religions, and languages.
The Justice Sreedharan-led panel concluded that referring to Colonel Sofiya Qureshi as a "sister of terrorists" constituted an offence that disregards the sentiments and faith of the Muslim community.
Regarding Operation Sindoor, Vijay Shah reportedly claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a "sister from the same community" as those in Pakistan to retaliate for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.
"PM Modi is working for society. Those who caused loss to our daughters (in Pahalgam), we sent a sister of their own to teach them a lesson," Shah stated.
The offensive remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who has been a prominent figure during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, triggered widespread public outrage.
In the aftermath, the Minister expressed his remorse and stated that he respects the Armed Forces, referring to Colonel Sofiya as "sister." "I, Vijay Shah, am not only embarrassed and saddened by my recent statement, which has offended the sentiments of every community, but I also apologize sincerely. Our country's sister Sofia Qureshi ji has transcended caste and societal barriers while fulfilling her national responsibilities," he conveyed in a video message shared on the social media platform X.
In his petition to the Supreme Court, Shah is seeking to have the FIR annulled as well as the suo motu proceedings initiated by the MP High Court.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the delicate balance between freedom of speech and the responsibilities that come with holding a public office. This case highlights the need for accountability and sensitivity in political discourse, especially when it concerns esteemed armed forces personnel.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the FIR against Vijay Shah?
The FIR was initiated due to Vijay Shah's controversial remarks describing Colonel Sofiya Qureshi as a 'sister of terrorists', which was deemed offensive and hurtful to the sentiments of the Muslim community.
What actions did the Madhya Pradesh High Court take against Shah?
The Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered the DGP to register a criminal case against Shah and warned of contempt if there was any delay in compliance.
What has been the public reaction to Shah's comments?
Shah's remarks sparked nationwide outrage, leading to public discussions about the responsibilities of public officials and their statements.
What did Vijay Shah do after the controversy?
After the backlash, Vijay Shah issued an apology, expressing regret for his comments and emphasizing his respect for the Armed Forces.
When will the Supreme Court hear Vijay Shah's plea?
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the plea on May 19.
