'Patriotic excitement’ behind remarks against Colonel Qureshi: M.P. Minister

Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah apologizes for controversial remarks about Colonel Qureshi, citing "patriotic excitement" behind his statements.

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".

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.

Also Read | Congress seeks removal of M.P. Minister over ‘insult’ to Col. Sofiya Qureshi

The Minister came under fire in May last year after a video of his remarks about Colonel Qureshi during a speech at a public event in Raikunda village in Indore district went viral on social media.