Politics – Vijay Shah Apologises Again as Prosecution Deadline Nears
Politics – With the Supreme Court’s deadline approaching on whether he will face prosecution, senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Vijay Shah has once again issued a public apology for his remarks concerning Colonel Sofia Qureshi. The Madhya Pradesh minister said on Saturday that his comments were made in what he described as a surge of patriotic emotion and were never intended to cause offence.
Minister Reiterates Regret Over Remarks
Addressing reporters, Shah said he deeply regretted the statement and acknowledged that his choice of words did not reflect his true sentiments. He maintained that he holds the highest regard for women officers and the Indian armed forces.
“I want to make it clear again that I never intended to insult any woman officer, the Indian Army, or any community,” he said. According to Shah, the controversy stemmed from what he called a “small mistake,” adding that he hoped the broader context of his feelings would be understood.
The minister stated that he had reflected on the matter and accepted responsibility for the remarks. He assured that he would exercise greater caution in public speeches going forward.
Controversial Speech Sparked Nationwide Backlash
The issue traces back to a public gathering in Raikunda village in Indore district last year. During his address, Shah referred to Colonel Sofia Qureshi, who had briefed the media during Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam terror attack, in a manner that critics described as inappropriate and offensive.
His comments drew strong reactions from political opponents, civil society groups, and members of the public. Many demanded his resignation, arguing that the remarks undermined the dignity of a serving Army officer and were insensitive in tone.
Colonel Qureshi had been widely recognised for her role in providing official briefings related to India’s military response after the attack. The reference made by Shah during his speech triggered debate across the country and quickly became a major political controversy.
Legal Action and Court Intervention
The Madhya Pradesh High Court took suo motu cognisance of the remarks, leading to the registration of a First Information Report against the minister. The case was filed under Sections 152, 196(1)(b), and 197(1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Shah later approached the Supreme Court seeking relief in the matter. On January 19, the apex court directed the state government to decide within two weeks whether to grant sanction for his prosecution. The deadline set by the court is now close, placing the state administration under pressure to take a decision.
Legal experts note that prosecution of a sitting minister requires prior sanction from the competent authority, which in this case lies with the state government.
Shah Says Words Were Misinterpreted
In his latest statement, Shah said the episode had caused him personal anguish. He emphasised that there was no malice behind his speech and described the incident as a lesson in public responsibility.
“It pains me that such a controversy arose from my statement,” he said, adding that he has always respected the Indian Army and its personnel. He reiterated that he had already apologised multiple times and was once again seeking forgiveness from those who felt hurt, particularly members of the armed forces.
Shah currently serves as the minister for tribal affairs, public asset management, and Bhopal gas tragedy relief and rehabilitation in the Madhya Pradesh government.
As the Supreme Court-mandated timeframe nears its end, attention now shifts to the state government’s decision on whether to grant approval for prosecution. The outcome is expected to shape the next phase of this high-profile political and legal development.