In a significant political development, Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah was deliberately excluded from the special Madhya Pradesh Cabinet meeting held at the historic Rajwada Palace in Indore on the occasion of the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar.
His absence from the event, widely viewed as a symbol of the government’s growing distance from the embattled minister, has sent strong signals about his precarious standing within the ruling party. However, State BJP president VD Sharma told media persons claimed that Shah did not turn up at the meeting. At times, it happens that ministers are not able to attend, he added.
The Cabinet meeting, convened at the iconic heritage site for the first time, was intended as a grand tribute to Devi Ahilyabai Holkar’s legacy of good governance and women’s empowerment.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav posed for an official group photograph with all ministers outside Rajwada prior to the meeting, but noticeably, Vijay Shah was missing. Sources confirm that Shah was not sent the cabinet agenda — a routine practice followed before every such session.
Political insiders suggest that the decision to keep Shah away was deliberate, aimed at avoiding controversy during the high-profile gathering.
Given the serious allegations and legal scrutiny surrounding Shah, his presence could have overshadowed the event’s significance.
“Not sending the agenda itself is a clear message,” said a senior government official, requesting anonymity. “It indicates he is being sidelined without formal removal.”
Vijay Shah has been at the center of a storm following his controversial remarks about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, which led to an FIR being registered on the directive of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. Subsequently, the Supreme Court ordered for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe comprising three IPS officers from outside the state.
The SIT, appointed by the state DGP, is expected to submit its report to the Supreme Court by May 28. While the apex court has stayed Shah’s arrest, the investigation continues, keeping the minister’s future uncertain.
Since the controversy erupted, Shah has maintained a low profile, avoiding public appearances, media interactions, and social media engagement. He has also not been seen with party leaders, reinforcing perceptions of his political isolation.
Despite not being officially removed from the cabinet, the state government and the BJP appear to be adopting a wait-and-watch approach. Shah’s exclusion from the Rajwada meeting is being interpreted as a clear signal that he is no longer publicly endorsed or fully trusted by the leadership.
Political analysts note that such sidelining often precedes formal action but also serves to mitigate public backlash while legal processes unfold. As the SIT’s findings approach, all eyes will be on how the party navigates this delicate political and legal challenge.