BJP Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah has approached the Supreme Court, challenging the Madhya Pradesh High Court's suo motu order that directed the registration of an FIR against him. This order was based on his controversial remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a senior Army officer known for her role in 'Operation Sindoor'.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi gained prominence after delivering press briefings on the Indian Air Force's military operations targeting terrorist sites in Pakistan. However, Vijay Shah's remarks sparked outrage. He commented, "Jinhone humari betiyon ke sindoor ujade the… humne unhiki behen bhej kar ke unki aisi ki taisi karwayi" (Translation: Those people (terrorists) who had wiped out the sindoor (vermilion) of our sisters... we avenged these people by sending their sister to destroy them).

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"High Court condemned Shah's remarks as 'disparaging' and 'language of the gutters,' stating they targeted not only Colonel Qureshi but also disrespected the armed forces."

The Madhya Pradesh High Court, taking note of Shah's statements, criticized them as "disparaging," "dangerous," and using "language of the gutters." The court emphasized that his comments went beyond targeting an individual officer, as they undermined the dignity of the entire armed forces.

The court further noted that Shah's remarks seemed to promote a discriminatory view, suggesting that a person’s selfless service to the nation could be disregarded solely based on their religious identity. It highlighted that such a narrative could be harmful, especially when aimed at someone belonging to the Muslim faith.

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"The High Court observed that Shah's remarks could promote a narrative where even the highest acts of service are disregarded due to religious identity."

Acting on these observations, the High Court directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to ensure the immediate registration of an FIR against Vijay Shah under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. It also warned of contempt proceedings in case of non-compliance with this order.

Following the court's instructions, the Madhya Pradesh Police registered an FIR against Vijay Shah under Sections 152, 196(1)(b), and 197(1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

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Challenging this order, Vijay Shah has now moved the Supreme Court, seeking relief against the High Court’s directions. His plea is expected to raise questions about free speech, judicial powers, and the limits of criticism against public figures, even in sensitive contexts.

Case Title: KUNWAR VIJAY SHAH v. THE HIGH COURT OF MADHYA PRADESH, Diary No. - 27093/2025