In compliance with a directive from the Supreme Court, Madhya Pradesh Police has formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate state minister Vijay Shah’s controversial remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. The move comes after the top court took serious note of Shah’s “crass” comments, which sparked widespread condemnation and led to legal action.
The SIT comprises senior police officials: Inspector General (IG) Pramod Verma, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Kalyan Chakravarty, and Superintendent of Police (SP) Vahini Singh. The inclusion of a woman officer, SP Singh, aligns with the Supreme Court’s specific directive. The team has been tasked with probing the FIR registered against Shah, as ordered earlier by the Madhya Pradesh High Court.
The Supreme Court had instructed the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) to constitute the SIT by 10 AM on Tuesday, May 21. Acting swiftly, DGP Kailash Makwana issued the order and appointed the designated officers to ensure full compliance with the apex court’s mandate. The SIT has been directed to submit its first status report to the court by May 28.
The controversy erupted after a video went viral, showing Minister Shah allegedly making derogatory and offensive comments about Col Sofiya Qureshi. Col Qureshi, along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, recently received national attention for their roles in the media briefings during Operation Sindoor.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court had earlier slammed Shah for using “language of the gutters” and ordered an FIR to be filed under charges related to promoting enmity and hatred. The incident drew sharp criticism from the public, veterans, and political figures alike.
In response to the backlash, Shah issued a statement expressing regret, claiming he respects Col Qureshi more than his own sister. However, the courts have taken a stern view, underlining the seriousness of his remarks and the need for an impartial investigation.
