On May 15, 2025, the Madhya Pradesh High Court sharply criticized the state’s handling of a First Information Report (FIR) against BJP minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, describing it as a “gross subterfuge.” The court took suo motu cognizance of derogatory remarks made by Shah against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a prominent officer involved in Operation Sindoor. Shah had referred to Colonel Qureshi as a “sister of terrorists,” a statement the court found deeply disrespectful to the armed forces. The High Court directed the state Director General of Police to file an FIR immediately under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections related to actions endangering national unity and promoting enmity. Furthermore, the court announced it would monitor the investigation to ensure proper legal action is taken.

Additionally, the Supreme Court of India disapproved of Shah’s objectionable comments and refused to grant him any interim relief concerning the case. This underscores the judiciary’s firm stance against defamatory and inappropriate remarks, especially those involving members of the armed forces.

Sources