“Go and Apologise”: Supreme Court Rebukes MP Minister Vijay Shah Over Remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi
Court Denounces Vijay Shah’s “Insensitive and Unacceptable” Speech
New Delhi, May 15, 2025 — In a scathing rebuke, the Supreme Court of India has directed Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah to apologise for his inflammatory remarks against Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. Chief Justice of India BR Gavai called the statement “unacceptable” and “insensitive,” emphasizing that constitutional officeholders must display restraint and responsibility in public discourse.
“What sort of comments are you making?” CJI Gavai asked pointedly during the hearing. “You should show some sensibility. Go and apologise in the High Court.”
The apex court’s comment came as it rejected Shah’s request for interim protection from arrest, stating, “Nothing will happen to you in a day. You know who you are.” The court agreed to hear his plea on Friday.
The Controversial Remarks That Sparked Outrage
The controversy began with a speech delivered by Vijay Shah, Madhya Pradesh’s Tribal Welfare Minister, on May 12 during a public gathering in Raikunda village, Indore. Referring indirectly to Colonel Sofiya Qureshi’s role in Operation Sindoor, Shah’s remarks were seen as both communal and misogynistic.
Speaking about the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, Shah attempted to praise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s response but did so in a deeply offensive manner:
“They [terrorists] made our sisters widows, so Modi ji sent a sister of their community to strip them and teach them a lesson… They undressed our Hindu brothers before killing them. We responded by sending their own sister to hit them in their houses.”
Although Colonel Qureshi was not named, the context left little ambiguity. The reference was widely interpreted as targeting her, particularly given her visible presence in joint press briefings alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh.
Legal Repercussions and High Court’s Intervention
The Madhya Pradesh High Court took swift action, directing the Director General of Police to register an FIR against Shah by the end of the same day. The court further warned that any delay would result in contempt proceedings.
In its order, the court stated that Shah’s remarks:
- Violated Indian penal codes, promoting enmity between communities.
- Threatened communal harmony.
- Undermined the dignity and discipline of the Indian Armed Forces.
The High Court also noted that the military remains “perhaps the last institution in this country” that symbolizes “integrity, selflessness, and honour.”
Widespread Political and Public Backlash
Shah’s comments have drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum.
- Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called the remarks “shameful and communal,” urging PM Modi to sack Shah immediately.
- MP Congress Chief Jitu Patwari shared the video of the speech on social media, accusing the BJP of spreading hate and division.
- Surprisingly, even senior BJP leader Uma Bharti criticized Shah, calling for his removal:
“He has brought shame to the entire nation. An FIR must be filed immediately.”
Military veterans, civil society groups, and women’s rights organizations have also joined the chorus of condemnation, demanding stronger action against Shah.
Minister’s Attempted Damage Control
Following the public and legal uproar, Vijay Shah has issued multiple apologies, claiming that his words were misunderstood and taken out of context.
In a statement, Shah said:
“Sister Sofiya has brought glory to India by rising above caste and religion. She is more respected than our own sister… I salute her for her service to the nation. Still, if my words have hurt society, I am ready to apologise ten times.”
However, critics argue that these apologies are too little, too late. Many insist that a formal apology in court, as directed by the Supreme Court, is the only acceptable redressal.
A Broader Question of Political Rhetoric
This incident has reignited debates around responsible political speech, especially from those holding public office. Experts note that such statements not only tarnish the dignity of the armed forces but also endanger communal harmony during a sensitive time marked by terror attacks and national security concerns.
With elections looming in several states, the BJP may face increasing pressure to take disciplinary action and distance itself from divisive rhetoric within its ranks.