Mon May 19 08:22:04 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Supreme Court of India has ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah for allegedly making derogatory remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi during her media briefing on Operation Sindoor. The court criticized Shah’s remarks as “crass, thoughtless,” and expressed disappointment in his lack of sincere apology. The court emphasized the need for a fair and transparent investigation, questioning the State’s delay in registering an FIR and bringing the Minister to account. Shah’s arrest remains stayed as long as he cooperates with the investigation.

**News Article:**

**Supreme Court Orders SIT Probe into Minister’s Remarks Against Female Officer**

*New Delhi, May 19, 2025* – The Supreme Court of India has directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah following alleged derogatory remarks he made against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who was the media contact for Operation Sindoor.

A bench headed by Justice Surya Kant expressed strong disapproval of Shah’s comments, labeling them as “crass, thoughtless remarks.” The court further criticized the Minister for a perceived lack of genuine remorse, stating an apology made merely to avoid accountability was insufficient.

The SIT, to be formed by the Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police by May 20th, must consist of three direct-recruited IPS officers of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, none of whom should belong to the State. It should be headed by an Inspector General rank officer, with the other two members holding SP rank, one of them must be a woman. The SIT is tasked with submitting a status report to the court, with the next hearing scheduled for May 28th.

Justice Kant emphasized that the investigation would serve as a “litmus test” for the BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh government. The court also questioned the State’s initial reluctance to register an FIR against the Minister, forcing the High Court to intervene.

The court directed Mr. Shah to cooperate fully with the investigation, under which condition his arrest has been stayed. The incident raises serious questions about the conduct of public officials and the protection of the dignity of female officers in India.

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