By Staff Reporter | YaHind.Com
New Delhi, October 6, 2025 – In a shocking breach of decorum within the hallowed halls of the Supreme Court, a 71-year-old lawyer allegedly attempted to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice B.R. Gavai during court proceedings today, prompting widespread outrage and swift condemnation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The incident unfolded during a routine hearing before the bench led by CJI Gavai, when lawyer Rakesh Kishore, reportedly aggrieved over the judge’s earlier remarks on a petition concerning the restoration of a Lord Vishnu idol in Madhya Pradesh’s Khajuraho temple, approached the dais. Kishore was seen trying to remove his shoe, seemingly intent on throwing it at the CJI, while shouting about perceived insults to Sanatan Dharma. Quick intervention by security personnel prevented the act from escalating further, and the lawyer was detained briefly for questioning by Delhi Police.
Unfazed, CJI Gavai maintained remarkable composure, instructing the court to proceed with the hearing without distraction. “Don’t get distracted by all this. These things do not affect me. Continue with the hearing,” he reportedly said, a display of calm that drew praise from across the political spectrum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a strongly worded statement on X (formerly Twitter), reached out personally to the CJI to express solidarity. “Spoke to Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai Ji. The attack on him earlier today in the Supreme Court premises has angered every Indian. There is no place for such reprehensible acts in our society. It is utterly condemnable,” PM Modi posted. He further commended the CJI’s poise, noting, “I appreciated the calm displayed by Justice Gavai in the face of such a situation. It highlights his commitment to values of justice and strengthening the spirit of our Constitution.”
The Prime Minister’s intervention underscores the gravity of the security lapse in one of India’s most fortified institutions, raising questions about courtroom protocols and the rising tide of intolerance in legal discourse.
Nationwide Outrage and Political Solidarity
The brazen attempt has ignited a firestorm of condemnation from leaders across party lines, with many viewing it not just as an assault on an individual but on the very edifice of the judiciary and the Constitution.
Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi described the episode as “an assault not just on him but on our Constitution as well,” adding, “No words are adequate to condemn the attack on the Honourable Chief Justice of India in the Supreme Court itself.” Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge echoed this sentiment, calling it “unprecedented, shameful and abhorrent.”
The Bar Council of India acted decisively, suspending Kishore’s license with immediate effect pending a full inquiry. During police questioning, the lawyer cited his dissatisfaction with CJI Gavai’s September remarks dismissing a plea for the idol’s restoration as “purely publicity interest litigation.” The CJI had quipped, “Go and ask the deity himself to do something. If you are saying that you are a strong devotee of Lord Vishnu, then you pray and do some meditation.”
No formal complaint was filed against Kishore, who was released after three hours of interrogation, but authorities have vowed a thorough probe to prevent future breaches.
A Blow to Judicial Sanctity?
This incident, coming amid ongoing debates on judicial independence and cultural sensitivities, serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing India’s apex court. Legal experts warn that such acts erode public trust in institutions meant to uphold the rule of law.
As the nation rallies in support of CJI Gavai, PM Modi’s outreach symbolizes a unified front against violence in public life. The event has “angered every Indian,” as the Prime Minister aptly put it, demanding stricter safeguards to protect the guardians of justice.
YaHind.com will continue to monitor developments in this unfolding story. Stay tuned for updates.
