Shah said his comments were made “in anger and emotional intensity” and did not reflect his true feelings toward the Indian Army or women officers. “Whatever I said, I said in anger. I sincerely apologise. I have apologised earlier and I am apologising again today,” he said, adding that it caused him personal distress that a “small mistake” had escalated into a major controversy.
Shah maintained that he never intended to insult any woman officer, the armed forces, or any section of society. Stressing the need for restraint in public life, he said he had reflected on the incident, learned from it, and accepted responsibility. “Such a mistake will not happen again,” he said, apologising to citizens and the Indian Army.
The controversy dates back to May 11 last year, when Shah delivered a speech at an event in Raikunda village in Mhow, Indore district. While referring to Operation Sindoor and counter-terror operations, he used language that drew sharp criticism for being inappropriate and offensive. The remarks triggered widespread backlash and legal action, eventually leading the matter to the Supreme Court.
The Madhya Pradesh government is required to submit its response to the Supreme Court on February 9 regarding approval for prosecution against the minister. Earlier, the apex court had directed the state to take a decision within 15 days. According to government and political sources, the state may seek additional time, citing that the investigation is still underway.
Officials indicate that the state’s position is aligned with the view of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has consistently maintained that further examination of the case is necessary before a final decision is taken. A three-member SIT—comprising Pramod Verma, Kalyan Chakravarti, and Vahini Singh—is currently probing the matter and has earlier requested more time to complete its inquiry.
Sources also said consultations have been held with senior party leaders and legal experts, including the Attorney General and the Additional Solicitor General. Following these deliberations, the state government has sent a detailed report to Delhi outlining its proposed stand before the Supreme Court.
In this connection, senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Shivshekhar Shukla, Secretary Krishna Veni Deshavatu, and Additional Secretary Manisha Sentia, travelled to the national capital. While arguments related to prosecution approval are expected to be heard on February 9, hearings on other aspects of the case may follow on February 11.
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