Bhopal l
In response to sharp criticism from the Supreme Court, Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Kailash Makwana has constituted a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate state minister Vijay Shah’s derogatory remarks against Colonel Sofia Qureshi, the defence spokesperson during Operation Sindoor.
The SIT, led by Sagar Zone Inspector General Pramod Verma, also includes SAF DIG Kalyan Chakraborty and Dindori SP Vahini Singh. The team has been directed to submit its findings by May 28.
This development came after a Supreme Court bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh expressed deep displeasure over Shah’s remarks and his conditional apology.
“This is not an apology. It sounds like crocodile tears. The entire nation hangs its head in shame,” the bench observed, questioning the intent behind Shah’s statement.
What Happened?
The controversy began after Vijay Shah, during a public speech, allegedly referred to Colonel Qureshi as a “sister of terrorists”, sparking national outrage. His comments were met with widespread condemnation across party lines and social circles.
An FIR was later filed following an order by the Madhya Pradesh High Court, which had called Shah’s words “scurrilous” and “language of the gutters”. The charges against Shah include promoting enmity and hatred under relevant sections of the IPC.
Despite Shah expressing regret and saying ,” He respects Colonel Qureshi more than his own sister, the apology failed to satisfy the courts or the public. The Supreme Court made it clear: “We don’t need your apology. We will deal with this as per the law.”
Political Fallout
The incident has triggered political tremors in Madhya Pradesh. Congress President Jitendra Patwari accused the BJP of shielding Shah and demanded his resignation.
“This verdict is a slap on the face of arrogance. Power cannot protect anyone from the Constitution,” he said.
Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar welcomed the Supreme Court’s stance and questioned the BJP’s continued silence.
“The BJP still finds Shah ‘fit’ to continue despite the Supreme Court calling his remarks unfit. That says everything,” he remarked.
What’s Next?
With the SIT now in place, all eyes will be on the outcome of the investigation. The case has become a litmus test for the Madhya Pradesh government’s stance on accountability and the rule of law—especially when the person in question holds a cabinet post.
