The Supreme Court of India on May 8, 2026, expressed strong displeasure with the Madhya Pradesh government for failing to decide on a prosecution sanction request against minister Kunwar Shah. The case stems from remarks made by Shah about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, an Indian Army officer.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi noted that the decision on the Special Investigation Team's (SIT) request for sanction was due two weeks ago. The court stated that the delay was unacceptable and directed the state to expedite the process.
The SIT had investigated the matter and sought prosecution sanction against Shah for his alleged comments. The court's intervention highlights the judiciary's concern over the slow pace of action in cases involving public figures.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a decorated officer, had been the target of controversial remarks by Shah, leading to widespread criticism and legal proceedings. The Supreme Court's order underscores the need for timely justice in such sensitive matters.
