MP HC Orders FIR Against BJP Minister Vijay Shah Over Remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed state police to file an FIR against BJP minister Vijay Shah for his controversial remarks targeting Colonel Sofiya Qureshi during a public event.
In a major development, the Madhya Pradesh High Court on Wednesday ordered the Director General of Police to register a First Information Report (FIR) against state forest minister and BJP leader Kunwar Vijay Shah. The directive follows a viral video where Shah made controversial comments about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, an officer who played a prominent role in briefing Operation Sindoor.
The court, taking suo motu cognisance, ordered that the FIR be registered within four hours. A division bench led by Justice Atul Shridharan stated that the law must be upheld irrespective of political affiliations and emphasized the need to maintain the dignity of armed forces personnel.
At a government function on Tuesday, Shah allegedly said, “Those who widowed our daughters in Pahalgam, we sent a sister of their own to teach them a lesson,” referring to Colonel Qureshi. The comment, widely condemned, was seen as targeting Qureshi’s religious identity.
The clip triggered massive outrage on social media and within political circles, leading to legal action and nationwide demands for Shah’s resignation.
Reacting strongly, Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Jitu Patwari filed a formal complaint against Shah. “A minister insulted an Army officer and a daughter of India. Why is the BJP silent?” Patwari asked at a press briefing.
He further warned, “If action is not taken within 24 hours, Congress will register FIRs in every police station across the country.” The party has demanded the minister’s immediate dismissal.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is a decorated officer known for her service and was among those who briefed the press on India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians.
Her presence during the military briefing was seen as a symbol of India’s diverse and inclusive armed forces, further amplifying public anger over Shah’s remarks.
The case will be heard on May 15 on an urgent basis. Meanwhile, police are expected to act on the court’s directive immediately. As calls for Shah’s resignation grow louder.
