New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Monday evening following an unprecedented attack on him inside the Supreme Court premises. Describing the incident as “utterly condemnable,” PM Modi said it had “angered every Indian” and praised the Chief Justice for his composure during the ordeal.
During a court proceeding, an elderly lawyer, later identified as Rakesh Kishore, removed his shoe and attempted to throw it at Chief Justice Gavai. The shoe did not reach the bench, and Kishore was immediately detained by security personnel. Eyewitnesses reported that he shouted, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (will not tolerate insults to Sanatan Dharma) as he was escorted out.
Despite the incident, Chief Justice Gavai, who was seated alongside Justice K Vinod Chandran, remained unshaken. Addressing court officials and lawyers, he said, “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me,” and continued with the proceedings. PM Modi appreciated the Chief Justice’s calm, stating that it highlighted his commitment to justice and the spirit of the Constitution.
In response, the Bar Council of India immediately suspended Kishore, stating his actions were “inconsistent with the dignity of the court.” The Council barred him from “appearing, acting, pleading, and practising in any court, tribunal, or authority in India” and issued a show-cause notice, giving him 15 days to explain why further action should not be taken.
The attack followed public attention on remarks made by Chief Justice Gavai last month regarding a petition for the restoration of a Vishnu idol at the Khajuraho Javari Temple in Madhya Pradesh. The bench dismissed the plea, with the Chief Justice commenting, “If you are a strong devotee of Lord Vishnu, then pray and meditate.” His remarks had sparked debate on social media, though he later clarified that he respects all religions.
The Supreme Court attack has drawn nationwide attention, with leaders and legal authorities condemning the incident and reaffirming the need to maintain the dignity and security of India’s judiciary.
