‘Crocodile Tears’: Supreme Court Rejects BJP Minister’s Apology Over Col Sofiya Qureshi Remarks

Crocodile Tears: The Supreme Court of India came down heavily against Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah on Monday for his ‘crass’ remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.

"The nature of this matter...we are carrying the video clips...we would like to see what kind of apology you have tendered...there is a meaning of the word 'apology'...sometimes only to wriggle out of consequences...sometimes crocodile tears...what sort is yours?" Justice Surya Kant said.

“The entire nation was in shame due to the comments… We saw your videos , you were on the verge of using very filthy language but somehow better sense prevailed or you did not find suitable words. You should be shameful. Entire country is proud of our Army and you made this statement,” said Justice Surya Kant.

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Colonel Qureshi was one of the two officers, along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media about the military aspects of Operation Sindoor.

"You are a public figure. A seasoned politician. You should weigh your words when you speak. We should display your video here… This is an important issue for the armed Forces. We need to be very responsible," the top court said, adding that Shah should have been careful before making 'crass' remarks.

"We are proud of our Army...it is an emotive issue," the court said. "Sentiments of citizens are brutally hurt," it added.

The court also asked what actions the MP government has taken after the FIR was registered following instructions from the High Court.

"Why has the state not acted?" the Supreme Court asked, adding that by 10 am on Tuesday, it wants to see the SIT consisting of three senior IPS officers, including a woman officer, to probe the FIR against the minister.

"The petitioner shall cooperate with the probe...the SIT shall submit a status report," the court added.

During the last hearing on Thursday, the Supreme Court slammed the minister and said that a minister is expected "to speak with responsibility."

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Vijay Shah stoked a row for his objectionable remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. At a public event in Indore, Shah made a controversial statement without naming Colonel Qureshi.

He had shockingly referred to Col Qureshi as the "sister of the terrorists".

"'Jinhone humari betiyon ke sindoor ujade the… humne unhiki behen bhej kar ke unki aisi ki taisi karwayi (those who wiped sindoor (vermilion) off our daughters' forehead... we sent their sister to teach them a lesson)'," Vijay Shah was purportedly heard saying in a video that went viral.

Though he did not name anyone, his remarks were seen as being directed towards Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who was one of the faces of the armed forces during the Op Sindoor briefings. This had sparked a massive political storm, drawing criticism from the Opposition parties, military veterans, and even some BJP members.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court said the remark was unacceptable and insensitive, with Chief Justice of India BR Gavai calling on those occupying constitutional positions to exercise restraint while giving a speech.

Vijay Shah had initially said that his remark was being taken out of context, but later offered to "apologise ten times".

"Sister Sofiya has brought glory to India by rising above caste and religion...We cannot even think of insulting her in our dreams. Still, if my words have hurt society and religion, then I am ready to apologise ten times," he had said.

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