Bhopal, May 20: The Madhya Pradesh Police has constituted a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate controversial remarks made by state minister Vijay Shah against Col Sofiya Qureshi, following the directions of the Supreme Court.
Supreme Court Directs SIT Formation
The apex court on Monday sharply criticised Shah’s comments, labelling them "crass," and ordered a formal probe into the matter. Acting on this, Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Kailash Makwana issued an order to form the SIT by 10 am on Tuesday, as mandated.
The Supreme Court's directive followed a Madhya Pradesh High Court order that had called for the registration of an FIR against Shah. The High Court had taken strong exception to the minister’s remarks, stating that he used "language of the gutters" and made "scurrilous" statements aimed at promoting enmity and hatred.
SIT Members Announced
The SIT is headed by Inspector General (IG) Pramod Verma of the Sagar range. He is joined by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Kalyan Chakravarty from SAF Bhopal and Superintendent of Police (SP) Vahini Singh from Dindori, ensuring the inclusion of a woman officer as per the Supreme Court’s order.
The first status report from the SIT is scheduled to be submitted to the court on May 28.
Background: Remarks and Public Outrage
Vijay Shah came under intense scrutiny after a video surfaced online showing him allegedly making objectionable remarks against Col Sofiya Qureshi. Col Qureshi had gained national attention along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh during media briefings related to Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack.
Following public outrage and legal backlash, Shah issued a statement expressing regret over his remarks, stating he respects Col Qureshi more than his own sister.
The investigation is now underway under the supervision of the newly formed SIT, which will determine the next course of action based on its findings.
