New Delhi, 19 January (H.S.): The Supreme Court directed the Madhya Pradesh government on Monday to decide within two weeks on granting sanction to prosecute state minister Vijay Shah in a case involving objectionable remarks against Colonel Sophia Qureshi, who briefed media on Operation Sindoor.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) report revealed that requisite state government permission remains pending for the lower court case against Shah. Shah's counsel informed the court they had tendered an apology, but the bench refused to consider it, stating it's too late now.

On May 19, 2025, the Supreme Court had granted Vijay Shah protection from arrest subject to cooperating with investigation, simultaneously ordering formation of a three-member SIT. During proceedings, the court reprimanded Shah for his statement, declaring it had shamed the entire nation.

Earlier, on May 15, 2025, the Supreme Court had sharply criticized Shah, questioning how a government minister could make such remarks during national crisis, stressing every word carries weight and demanding responsibility.The case originated from Vijay Shah's controversial statement—without naming Colonel Sophia Qureshi—during a public event in Indore, sparking widespread outrage.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court took suo motu cognizance, ordering FIR registration against Shah, which was duly filed. Shah challenged the High Court's FIR directive before the Supreme Court.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar