In Bhopal, Vijay Shah, a senior leader of the BJP and the Tribal Welfare Minister of Madhya Pradesh, has recently issued a new apology following backlash over his remarks regarding Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. His comments had ignited a significant controversy across the nation.

In a video posted on his social media platform, Shah described his earlier statement as a 'linguistic mistake' and expressed that it was never his intention to offend any individual, community, or religion. He stated, "I hold the Indian Armed Forces in high regard and did not mean to hurt anyone's feelings. I sincerely apologize to Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, the Indian Armed Forces, and all citizens of India."

Alongside the video, Shah also provided a written apology on official Tribal Welfare Department letterhead, reiterating the sentiments expressed in his video.

This apology comes just three days after a special meeting of the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, which Shah did not attend.

Notably, this apology arrives just a week ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit to Madhya Pradesh, where he is set to address a large gathering of women at Jamboori Maidan in Bhopal on May 31.

Meanwhile, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established under the Supreme Court's oversight to investigate Shah's comments made during a program in Mhow on May 11, where he discussed 'Operation Sindoor.'

A senior police official in Indore confirmed that all relevant documents and evidence related to the incident have been submitted to the SIT, which consists of three senior IPS officers. The SIT is expected to present its findings to the Supreme Court by May 28.

Earlier, on May 19, the Supreme Court mandated the formation of the SIT to look into the allegations against Shah, who is facing scrutiny for his remarks about Colonel Qureshi. However, a bench led by Justices Surya Kant and N.K. Singh has temporarily stayed his arrest and instructed him to cooperate with the investigation.

Despite Shah's apology, the Supreme Court bench expressed dissatisfaction, stating, "He must face consequences. Let the law take its course."

Shah has also filed a petition with the Supreme Court challenging a Madhya Pradesh High Court order that called for an FIR against him due to his controversial comments.

The bench, led by Justice Kant, previously could not address Shah's special leave petition (SLP) for a hearing, but agreed to list it for discussion on May 19. When Shah's lawyer sought urgent attention for the SLP, the Chief Justice criticized the minister's remarks, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with holding a constitutional position.

In response, Shah's legal representative argued that the media had exaggerated the situation and highlighted that Shah had already issued an apology.