Supreme Court Says No Repentance in Minister’s Colonel Sofiya Qureshi Remark
Court criticizes minister over Colonel Sofiya Qureshi remark incident
The Supreme Court on Friday strongly criticised Madhya Pradesh Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah over his remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, terming the statements “most unfortunate” and noting that the minister showed “no repentance” despite public controversy and earlier judicial observations.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi observed that Shah should have immediately apologised after referring to Colonel Qureshi as a “sister of terrorists.” The court’s remarks came during a hearing related to the ongoing investigation into the minister’s comments, which had sparked widespread criticism.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that, in his personal view, Shah intended to praise the officer and had tendered an apology soon after the controversy erupted. He added that the political leader’s comments were “unfortunate.” However, the Chief Justice responded sharply, stating, “It was most unfortunate, then he has no repentance.”
Also Read: Ex-Andhra DGP’s Wife Tanuja Ray Murdered in Hyderabad Home; Domestic Help Suspected
The court also directed the Madhya Pradesh government to take a decision on granting sanction to prosecute Shah, observing that “enough is enough.” It refused to hear further submissions from the minister’s side and the state, instructing compliance with its earlier directive within four weeks.
The matter stems from allegations linked to remarks made by Shah against Colonel Qureshi, who had briefed the media on Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. On January 19, the Supreme Court had noted that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) had completed its probe and submitted a final report seeking government sanction to proceed with prosecution.
The investigation had previously been stalled due to the absence of mandatory state approval. Earlier proceedings in July 2025 saw the apex court criticise Shah’s comments as “filthy, crass and shameful,” while also ordering the formation of a three-member IPS SIT and granting interim protection from arrest.
Also Read: Spirit Airlines Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Negligence After Dementia Patient’s Death in Texas
