Security scare in Supreme Court: Man in lawyer’s robe tries to hurl shoe at CJI Gavai

A lawyer attempted to attack Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai in the Supreme Court on Monday during proceedings. The incident occurred while the Bench, led by the CJI, was hearing mentioning of cases by lawyers.

According to sources, the lawyer identified as Rakesh Kishore, approached the dais and attempted to remove his shoe with the intention of throwing it at the judge. Security personnel present in the courtroom intervened in the nick of time and quickly escorted the lawyer out.

As he was being taken away, the lawyer was heard saying, “_Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge (_We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan).”

According to Bar and Bench, the CJI remained composed and unfazed by the incident. Addressing the courtroom, he said: “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me.” He then asked the lawyers present to continue with their arguments.

The attempted assault is believed to have been triggered by comments made by CJI Gavai in a previous case related to the restoration of a seven-foot beheaded idol of Lord Vishnu at Khajuraho. In dismissing that case, the CJI had remarked: “Go and ask the deity itself to do something now. You say you are a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. So go and pray now. It’s an archaeological site and ASI needs to give permission etc.”

The observation generated significant reaction on social media, with many accusing the CJI of hurting religious sentiments. Addressing the controversy in open court two days later, CJI Gavai stated: “I respect all religions…This happened on social media.”

Representing the Central government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta supported the CJI’s stance, noting that reactions to such events are often exaggerated on social media. He said: “We have seen this…There is Newton’s law which says every action has equal reaction, but now every action has disproportionate social media reaction, milord.”