With a Supreme Court-mandated deadline for his prosecution looming large,Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah on Saturday (February 7, 2026) apologised again for his objectionable remarks about Colonel Sofia Qureshi, saying he had uttered the words in a moment of "patriotic excitement".
Vijay Shah statement row: An FIR and an angry High Court
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Shah said he never intended to insult a woman officer, the armed forces or any section of society.
The Supreme Court had on January 19 directed the State government to decide within two weeks whether to grant sanction to prosecute Mr. Shah for his controversial remarks about Colonel Qureshi.
Following the apex court's directive, the Congress has been demanding Shah's resignation or his removal from the cabinet.
