Video grab of Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah seeking a public apology for his comments on Col. Sofiya Qureshi.  
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Days the Supreme Court turned down his apology and formed an SIT to probe the case against him, Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah on Friday (May 23, 2025) issued another public apology and termed his remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi a “linguistic mistake”.

Madhya Pradesh BJP Minister Vijay Shah may find his latest controversy the hardest to dodge

“I was deeply saddened and disturbed by the gruesome massacre that took place in Pahalgam earlier. I have always had immense love for my nation and respect for the Indian Army. The words spoken by me have hurt the community, religion and countrymen, it was my linguistic mistake,” Mr. Shah said in a video statement on X.

“My intention was not to hurt or offend any religion, caste or community. I sincerely apologise to the entire Indian Army, Sister Colonel Sofiya and all the countrymen for the words I said inadvertently and once again with folded hands I apologise,” the Tribal Affairs Minister further said.

Earlier on May 20, a three-member SIT was formed on the Supreme Court’s directions to probe the FIR filed against Mr. Shah on the orders of the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

The SIT is expected to submit its findings to the Supreme Court during the next hearing on May 28.