SC orders SIT probe into minister’s remarks against Sofiya Qureshi

The Supreme Court on Monday ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case against Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah following derogatory remarks he made about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a decorated officer in the Indian Army.

Colonel Qureshi, who gained national recognition as one of the leading spokespeople for Operation Sindoor, India’s recent cross-border counterterror operation, became the subject of crass public commentary from Shah, who referred to her as a “sister of terrorists” during a political rally. The statement sparked widespread outrage across military and civil society, with opposition parties and veterans’ groups demanding strict action.

The Supreme Court rebuked the minister for his “crass comments,” and Justice Surya Kant said he did not offer a sincere apology. “What is that apology? What kind of apology have you tendered? There is some meaning of apology. Sometimes people use docile language only to wriggle out of proceedings, and sometimes they shed crocodile tears. What kind of apology is yours? You want to give the impression that the court had asked you to apologise. What prevented you from making a sincere apology for your crass comments till now?” said Justice Surya Kant.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT), comprising three IPS officers, should be formed by May 20 to investigate the case against the minister, the court said, adding that it must have a woman officer and submit its report by May 28.

In his defence, Shah told reporters his remarks were “misinterpreted” and claimed he held the armed forces in “the highest regard.” He added that he was prepared to apologise “a hundred times” if anyone had been hurt. His statement, however, failed to quell the political storm.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who has served in several high-risk operations, has not made a public statement regarding the incident. Sources close to the Army said the institution stands firmly behind her, viewing the minister’s remarks as an attempt to politicise the military for short-term electoral gains. Legal experts say the case may set a precedent for holding public officials accountable for inflammatory speech.

Colonel Sofia QureshiNews BriefOperation SindoorSupreme CourtVijay ShahWeb Exclusive