State Bureau, Naidunia, Bhopal | The Madhya Pradesh government will submit a report to the Supreme Court denying permission to prosecute Minister Vijay Shah for making controversial statements regarding Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who was one of the faces of the armed forces during the press briefings on Operation Sindoor against Pakistan.
Formal Announcement Likely In Two Days
The Home Ministry has reviewed the Cabinet’s recommendation, approved by Governor Mangubhai Patel, and sent the draft order to the Chief Minister’s Office. Upon receiving the green light in a day or two, the Home Department will issue an order denying prosecution approval and submit the report to the Supreme Court.
What Is The Matter?
On May 11, 2025, during an event in Raikunda village, Indore district, MP Minister Vijay Shah triggered a controversy by making a remark about Col Qureshi. He said they (terrorists) stripped and killed our Hindus, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had “sent their sister” to handle the operation. The Madhya Pradesh High Court took suo motu cognisance and rebuked Shah for passing “scurrilous” remarks and using “language of the gutters” against Col Qureshi, and ordered police to file an FIR against him on the charge of promoting enmity and hatred. After drawing severe condemnation, Shah expressed regret and said he respects Col Qureshi more than his sister.
SC Orders Formation Of SIT
The case subsequently reached the Supreme Court, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed. The SIT investigated and submitted a sealed report to the court, seeking prosecution sanction to prosecute Shah.
Shah Already Apologised Four Times: MP Govt
The government said that he issued an apology four times and there is no justification for prosecution. During the cabinet meeting, all ministers unanimously stated that Shah had apologised four times in public and in writing for this matter. He never intended to insult the army or the female officer, and therefore, there is no practical justification for prosecuting him now.
The Supreme Court expressed displeasure over the continued delays and directed the state government to make a swift decision. Prior to the hearing on August 31, a Cabinet meeting on August 25 recommended that the Governor (competent authority) to decide against pursuing the case. The proposal has received the Governor’s approval.