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SC directs MP minister to decide on sanction to prosecute for remarks against Col Qureshi
On May 8, 2026, the Supreme Court reprimanded Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah for remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and directed the state government to decide on granting sanction to prosecute within two weeks. The court referenced an earlier January 19 directive and an SIT report noting similar utterances, and highlighted that the investigation was completed in August 2025. The timeline also covers Shah’s May 2025 remarks and apology.
Why It Matters
The decision tests the state's willingness to grant prosecutorial sanction in politically sensitive cases and clarifies the process for prosecuting alleged hate speech and acts prejudicial to national integrity. It has implications for ministerial accountability and the handling of statements affecting armed forces and national security.
Timeline
5 Events
SC directs decision on sanction; notes delays and SIT findings
May 8, 2026
The Supreme Court criticized Shah's remarks as 'most unfortunate' and 'without remorse' and directed the state government to clear its stand on granting sanction within two weeks. It recalled the January 19 order and acknowledged the SIT's findings of similar utterances by the minister. The state informed the court that the decision is pending; Solicitor General Tushar Mehta sought a week's time to decide, but the court posted the matter for two weeks to allow compliance.
SC asks state to decide on sanction
January 19, 2026
The Supreme Court had earlier asked the state to take a call on granting sanction for probing the criminal case against the minister.
SIT completes investigation and seeks sanction
August 13, 2025
A Special Investigation Team completed the investigation and submitted its report to the government seeking sanction for prosecution. The SIT noted sanction was required as a pre-condition under Section 217(1) of BNSS for the trial court to take cognisance, and it referred to past instances of similar utterances by the minister.
Shah apologizes for remarks on national television
May 13, 2025
Shah apologized on national television for the remarks and released a letter clarifying his statements publicly.
Shah's remarks against Colonel Qureshi during Indore public address
May 12, 2025
Kunwar Vijay Shah made controversial remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi during a public address in Indore, stating: 'Those who widowed our daughters, we sent a sister of their own to teach them a lesson.'