New Delhi, July 28, 2025 – The Supreme Court of India sharply criticised Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Minister Vijay Shah on Monday for not issuing a public apology over his derogatory comment against Army officer Col. Sofiya Qureshi, who had addressed the media during Operation Sindhoor.

A Bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi stated in open court that the minister’s continued defiance of the court’s directive was “testing the patience of the court”, and that his actions reflect poor intent and lack of remorse.

The Apex Court had earlier remarked during one of the hearings that Vijay Shah’s statements were “crass and thoughtless”, amounting to an attack on the dignity of an Army officer serving the nation. Despite this, no official public apology has been issued by the minister, and his responses so far have been viewed by the court as evasive and insufficient.

Court questions minister’s bona fides

The Bench expressed concern that Shah’s conduct suggested a lack of genuine regret, raising serious questions about the bona fide nature of his submissions.

“This is not a matter of legal formality. It concerns respect for our armed forces and the decorum expected from public servants,” Justice Surya Kant noted.

The court indicated that further proceedings could be initiated if Shah fails to make amends in a manner deemed satisfactory.

Background: Operation Sindhoor and the controversy

Col. Sofiya Qureshi, a decorated Indian Army officer, had briefed the press during Operation Sindhoor, a major humanitarian and evacuation mission undertaken earlier this year. Shah, while speaking to local media in Madhya Pradesh, allegedly made a sexist and disparaging comment about her role and appearance during the press briefing.

The comment sparked nationwide outrage, with civil society groups, veterans, and political leaders across the spectrum calling it demeaning, unacceptable, and damaging to the morale of serving officers, especially women in uniform.

Petitions were soon filed in the Supreme Court seeking action against Shah, which led the court to issue notice to the minister in May 2025.

Political and public reactions

The BJP, to which Shah belongs, has so far maintained silence, though some party insiders have reportedly advised him to apologise publicly to contain the backlash. Opposition parties have used the opportunity to criticise the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh, calling Shah’s conduct a reflection of the ruling party's “disregard for democratic decorum and institutional values.”

Women’s rights groups, ex-servicemen associations, and human rights activists have also condemned the delay in apology, stressing that uniformed officers must be treated with utmost dignity, especially by public representatives.

What’s next?

The Supreme Court has not issued immediate directions, but legal experts suggest the minister may face contempt proceedings or further strictures if a sincere public apology is not issued soon. A follow-up hearing is expected in early August.

This incident once again brings into focus the responsibility of public officials to maintain restraint, respect institutions, and set the right example in public discourse.

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