'Minister Expected To Speak With Responsibility': Supreme Court To BJP's Vijay Shah Over Remarks On Colonel Sofiya Qureshi; Hearing Tomorrow

The Supreme Court today (May 15) refused intervention for now in the FIR lodged against BJP Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah over his comment calling Colonel Sofiya Qureshi a "sister of terrorists".

While hearing an urgent mentioning of his plea by Sr Advocate Vibha Makhija against Madhya Pradesh High Court's suo motu direction to register the FIR, CJI BR Gavai orally said, "A Person holding such an office is expected to maintain such a decree...every sentence uttered by a minister has to be with responsibility."

The bench was informed that the FIR has already been registered. Makhija stressed that Shah has recorded his apology and the statement was widely misunderstood. She added that the media has taken the statement out of context. 

As Shah sought no coercive steps in the matter till the time he is heard, the bench also comprising Justice AG Masih directed him to approach the High Court. It said, "Go and apply to HC. We will have it tomorrow."

Significant to note that the Madhya Pradesh High Court is currently hearing the suo moto matter. Live updates here.

The Supreme Court has meanwhile refused to pass any interim orders in the matter. The matter will now be heard tomorrow. 

To recap, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh had become the face of the 'Operation Sindoor' after she gave press briefings about the military operations carried out by the Indian Air Force against Pakistani terrorist sites.

He later posted a video on his X account, publically apologising for his remarks.