Madhya Pradesh Minister Faces High Court Scrutiny Over Controversial Colonel’s Remark
High Court Raises Concerns Over FIR Against BJP Minister
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has taken a strong stance against BJP Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, ordering the monitoring of the police investigation against him for his controversial remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the initial FIR filed by the state police, deeming it insufficient and potentially susceptible to being quashed.
Minister’s Instigating Remarks Spark Outrage
Shah’s remarks, where he called Colonel Qureshi, a prominent figure in the Indian Air Force’s Operation Sindoor, the “sister of terrorists,” sparked widespread outrage. The court deemed these statements as “disparaging,” “dangerous,” and “language of the gutters,” not only targeting the officer but also denigrating the armed forces as a whole.
High Court Takes Action
Following a hearing on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, the court directed the state’s Director General of Police to register an FIR against Shah. Justice Atul Sreedharan and Justice Anuradha Shukla, the division bench presiding over the case, emphasized that Shah’s statements could incite separatist sentiments and endanger India’s sovereignty and unity. They also noted a potential violation of Section 196(1)(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, which deals with acts prejudicial to communal harmony.
Court Questions FIR’s Substance
The court scrutinized the FIR registered against Shah, finding it lacking in detail and potentially vulnerable to being dismissed. The court observed that the FIR failed to adequately connect Shah’s actions to the offenses mentioned, prompting concerns about its validity.
Monitoring Investigation for Fairness
To address these concerns, the High Court decided to monitor the police investigation, ensuring fairness and impartiality. The court stressed its intention to prevent any undue influence or pressure on the investigation process.
Minister Seeks Supreme Court Intervention
On May 15, 2025, Shah moved to the Supreme Court, challenging the High Court’s order for the FIR.
Background
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi gained national recognition for her role in briefing the media about Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike by the Indian Air Force against Pakistani terrorist sites. Shah’s statement, linking her to terrorism based on her religion, sparked widespread condemnation and calls for action.
