MP High Court Orders FIR Against BJP Minister Vijay Shah Over Remark Against Colonel Sophia Qureshi

News Flash

14 May

Court Initiates Suo Motu Case After Minister Calls Army Officer “Sister of Terrorists” Following Operation Sindoor Briefing

Bhopal: In a significant judicial intervention, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed that a suo motu FIR be registered against BJP minister Vijay Shah for his controversial remarks against Colonel Sophia Qureshi, a decorated Indian Army officer.

The High Court noted that offences were committed under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and observed that calling a serving officer the "sister of terrorists" is not only defamatory but also damaging to the morale of the armed forces.

"The language used by the minister is derogatory, inflammatory, and constitutes a prima facie offence under applicable sections of the BNS,"
— Madhya Pradesh High Court observed during the hearing.

What Sparked the Controversy

During a public address in Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday, Vijay Shah reportedly praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Indian Army’s Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack, but smeared Colonel Qureshi by referring to her as the “sister of terrorists.”

Colonel Sophia Qureshi had delivered a press briefing following the operation, outlining its objectives and progress. Her role was widely appreciated by the public and media — until Shah's remarks triggered outrage.

The video of his statement has since gone viral, prompting intense backlash from opposition parties, especially the Congress, who have demanded his immediate resignation and criminal prosecution.

Vijay Shah’s Clarification

Facing mounting criticism, Shah issued a public statement saying:

“If my words have hurt anyone, I apologize ten times. I respect Colonel Sophia Qureshi more than my sister.”

However, his apology has failed to pacify critics who accuse him of trying to divert attention from the sacrifices made by the armed forces.

Congress Reaction:

Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh tweeted:

“This is not a slip of the tongue. This reflects the mindset of BJP leaders who cannot tolerate a strong woman in uniform, especially from a minority background.”

What the Court Said:

The MP High Court took suo motu cognizance of the viral video and directed the police to register an FIR immediately. The Court emphasized that:

• Defaming a serving officer undermines national security

• Political leaders must be held accountable for hate speech

• Action under defamation, public mischief, and criminal intimidation may be applicable