According to party sources, Shah held a closed-door meeting with BJP state president Hemant Khandelwal and several senior leaders. The meeting comes days before the Madhya Pradesh government is scheduled to submit its response to the Supreme Court on February 9 regarding the issue of granting sanction for Shah’s prosecution.

As Shah stepped out of the BJP office, journalists attempted to question him on the upcoming hearing and the government’s position on prosecution. He declined to respond, quickly boarded his vehicle, and departed, maintaining silence throughout.

The Supreme Court had earlier directed the state government to take a decision on the prosecution sanction within 15 days. With the deadline approaching, sources in the government and the party indicated that the state may seek additional time, citing the ongoing investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Officials argue that the probe is still at a crucial stage and requires further examination before a final decision can be taken. This view has also been echoed by the SIT, which has consistently sought more time to complete a detailed investigation.

According to sources, the state government has consulted senior BJP leaders as well as top legal authorities, including the Attorney General and the Additional Solicitor General. Following these consultations, the likelihood of seeking an extension during the February 9 hearing has increased, a move that could defer further proceedings.

In preparation for the hearing, the Madhya Pradesh government has sent a detailed report outlining its position to New Delhi. Senior Home Department officials, including ACS Home Shivshekhar Shukla, Home Secretary Krishna Veni Desavatu, and Additional Secretary Manisha Sentia, reportedly traveled to the capital to coordinate the legal response.

The case stems from remarks made by Shah during a public event in Raikunda village of Mhow, Indore, on May 11 last year. Referring to Operation Sindoor, Shah made comments that drew sharp criticism for their language and implications, triggering political backlash and legal scrutiny.

A three-member SIT, comprising Pramod Verma, Kalyan Chakraborty, and Vahini Singh, is currently investigating the matter. While issues related to prosecution sanction are expected to be heard on February 9, other aspects of the case may come up before the court on February 11.