Did the Supreme Court Deny the Removal of MP Minister Vijay Shah?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court refused to hear a plea against Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah for his controversial remarks. The court directed a Special Investigation Team to probe the matter further, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive report on Shah’s history of contentious statements that have sparked national outrage.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court rejected a plea for Vijay Shah's removal.
- A Special Investigation Team has been directed to investigate Shah's remarks.
- Shah's comments link Muslims to separatist sentiments.
- The Madhya Pradesh High Court previously mandated an FIR against Shah.
- The case highlights accountability for public officials.
New Delhi, July 28 (NationPress) The Supreme Court on Monday did not entertain a plea brought forth by Congress leader Jaya Thakur, which sought the dismissal of Madhya Pradesh Tribal Welfare Minister Vijay Shah due to his controversial 'sister of terrorists' comment, allegedly aimed at Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.
“Do not present such petitions before us,” remarked a Bench led by Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi. After highlighting Vijay Shah's history of contentious speeches, the Justice Kant-led Bench instructed the three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the instances cited in the petition.
“We are not considering this petition (requesting Shah's removal), but we urge the SIT to review the instances and submit a thorough report,” the apex court stated.
According to the writ petition filed by the Congress leader, Vijay Shah, a BJP MLA from Harsood Assembly seat and minister in Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s cabinet, violated the oath taken under Article 164(3) of the Constitution. The petition claimed that Shah's offensive remarks promoted 'feelings of separatist activities' by attributing separatist sentiments to Muslims, thereby jeopardizing the sovereignty and unity of India.
In a statement regarding Operation Sindoor, Vijay Shah reportedly claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had dispatched a 'sister from the same community' as those in Pakistan to take revenge for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which ignited widespread outrage.
On May 14, the Madhya Pradesh High Court had ordered the state Director General of Police to register an FIR against Shah within four hours and warned the top police official of contempt action if there was any delay in compliance.
Challenging the FIR registered under Sections 152, 196(1)(b), and 197 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the BJP leader approached the Supreme Court seeking to quash the criminal case. The apex court granted partial relief to the MP minister, protecting him from any coercive action, including arrest, provided he cooperates fully with the investigation. It instructed the DGP to establish an SIT comprising three senior IPS officers from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, including a female officer, to investigate the matter.
Nevertheless, a bench led by Justice Surya Kant refused to consider an application from Jaya Thakur, who accused Shah of violating his constitutional oath by delivering a 'hate speech.' Urging her not to 'politicize' the issue, the bench, which also included Justice Dipankar Datta, advised the Congress leader to seek an appropriate independent remedy.
Earlier in the day, Justice Kant's Bench criticized Shah for issuing an 'online' public apology and questioned the SIT for not recording statements from individuals affected by his controversial remarks.
Point of View
It is imperative to remain neutral while reporting on politically charged issues. The Supreme Court's decision to not entertain the plea against Minister Vijay Shah reflects its commitment to judicial processes. However, the directive for a Special Investigation Team emphasizes the necessity of accountability among public figures, ensuring that their remarks do not undermine national unity.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Supreme Court's ruling regarding Vijay Shah?
The Supreme Court declined to entertain a plea for the removal of Vijay Shah but directed a Special Investigation Team to investigate his controversial remarks.
Why was Vijay Shah's statement controversial?
Vijay Shah's statement was deemed controversial as it allegedly linked Muslims to separatist sentiments, which could threaten India's unity.
What are the implications of the Supreme Court's decision?
The Supreme Court's decision highlights the importance of accountability for public officials while also maintaining judicial decorum.
What is the background of the case?
The case arose from remarks made by Vijay Shah regarding Operation Sindoor, which led to widespread outrage and legal challenges.
What actions did the Madhya Pradesh High Court take?
The Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered the registration of an FIR against Shah and warned the police chief of contempt in case of delay.
