Amid Sanatan Dharma protest, Chief Justice handles courtroom disruption with dignity
Man Throws Shoe at CJI During Hearing
In a startling incident inside the Supreme Court of India this morning, a man threw a shoe at Chief Justice BR Gavai while court proceedings were underway. The shoe did not reach the bench, and the man was immediately apprehended by security personnel.
Chief Justice Gavai, showing complete composure, said:
“I am the last person to be affected by such things. Please continue the hearing.”
The hearing resumed without disruption.
“India Won’t Tolerate Sanatan’s Insult” — Protester Shouted
- The incident occurred during the first matter of the day.
- The attacker, reportedly an elderly man, shouted: “India won’t tolerate Sanatan’s insult”
before throwing the shoe. - Security personnel quickly restrained and removed him from the courtroom.
Who Was the Attacker?
- The individual had a proximity card typically issued to lawyers or clerks in the top court.
- The card was under the name Kishore Rakesh.
- The intent behind the attack is still under investigation.
- Security agencies are questioning him to determine motive and how he accessed the courtroom.
Judiciary Reacts: Calls for Unity and Investigation
Senior Advocate Indira Jaising:
“The incident must be investigated thoroughly. It appears to be a blatant casteist attack on the Supreme Court. Legal action must be taken.”
She also praised CJI Gavai’s restraint:
“Befitting the dignity of the court, the Chief Justice remained composed and continued with his work.”
Context: Social Media Backlash Over CJI’s Lord Vishnu Remark
The attack comes shortly after a wave of criticism on social media directed at Chief Justice Gavai for a comment made during a hearing.
- The CJI had declined a PIL requesting the reconstruction of a 7-foot beheaded idol of Lord Vishnu in Khajuraho.
- He reportedly remarked: “Go and ask the deity himself to do something.”
This led to:
- Accusations of disrespecting Hindu beliefs.
- Online outrage, especially from followers of Sanatan Dharma.
Clarifications and Reactions from Legal Community
Chief Justice BR Gavai:
“Someone told me that my remarks were misrepresented on social media. I respect all religions.”
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta:
“We’ve gone beyond Newton’s law — every action now has a disproportionate social media reaction.”
Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal:
“We suffer this every day. Social media is an unruly horse, and there’s no way to tame it!”
Key Highlights
- Chief Justice Gavai remains composed after courtroom shoe attack.
- Protester detained; motives under investigation.
- Incident linked to controversial comment on Lord Vishnu idol.
- Judiciary calls for strong response against ideological and casteist attacks.
