Minister Shah says sorry again in Colonel Sofia matter:4th apology before Supreme Court hearing; claims remarks were made in anger

Two days ahead of the Supreme Court hearing related to his remarks on Colonel Sofia, Madhya Pradesh Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah has apologised once again. He released a video message on social media on Sunday. In the video, Shah said he had repeatedly clarified that it was never his intention to insult any woman officer, the Indian Army, or any section of society. He said the words he used did not reflect his true feelings and were spoken in a moment of emotional intensity and patriotic fervour. “I sincerely apologise. I have done so many times earlier and I am doing it again today,” Shah said. He added that it caused him deep pain that a major controversy had arisen from what he described as a “small mistake”. Shah expressed hope that his sentiments would be understood in the right context and reiterated that he has always held, and will continue to hold, the Indian Army in the highest regard. He further said that dignity and sensitivity in speech are essential in public life. “I have reflected on this incident, learned a lesson, and I accept responsibility. I will exercise greater restraint in the future. Such a mistake will not happen again,” he said, apologising once more to citizens, the Indian Army, and all those affected. Statement made in Indore last year The controversy stems from a speech delivered by Vijay Shah on May 11 last year at an event in Raikunda village, Mhow (Indore). While referring to Operation Sindoor, Shah had made remarks about terrorists and retaliation, using language that was later criticised as inappropriate and offensive. Following widespread backlash, the comments became the subject of legal scrutiny, eventually leading to the matter reaching the Supreme Court. Government has to respond in Supreme Court The Madhya Pradesh government has to file its response in the Supreme Court on February 9 in the matter of prosecution approval against Minister Vijay Shah. Earlier, the court had directed the state government to take a decision within 15 days. According to government and political sources, the state government may seek more time from the Supreme Court in this matter. The argument will be given that the investigation of the case is not yet complete and detailed examination is necessary. This has been the stance of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the case from the beginning. Consultation with party legal experts According to sources, advice has been sought from senior party leaders as well as from the Attorney General and the Additional Solicitor General in connection with the matter. After detailed deliberations, indications suggest that the government may seek additional time during the February 9 hearing, which could result in the proceedings being postponed. State government sends report to Delhi The Madhya Pradesh government has sent a report outlining its intent to Delhi for submission before the Supreme Court. In this connection, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Shivshekhar Shukla, Secretary Krishna Veni Deshavatu, and Additional Secretary Manisha Sentia travelled to Delhi. Sources said that arguments related to prosecution issues are likely to be heard on February 9, while hearings on other aspects of the case may take place on February 11. 3-member SIT probing case A three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the Vijay Shah case. The team comprises Pramod Verma, Kalyan Chakravarti, and Vahini Singh. The SIT has earlier also sought additional time to carry out a detailed investigation.