07/10/2025
On October 6, 2025, a 71-year-old advocate, Rakesh Kishore, attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during a Supreme Court hearing. Kishore shouted, "India will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma," as he approached the bench.
Security swiftly intervened, preventing the object from reaching the judges. The incident followed public backlash over a remark by CJI Gavai regarding a public interest litigation seeking judicial intervention for the restoration of a damaged Vishnu idol in Khajuraho.
The Chief Justice had reportedly said, "Go and ask the deity himself to do something," which some perceived as disrespectful. He later clarified that he respects all religions.
In response to the incident, the Bar Council of India suspended Advocate Rakesh Kishore's license to practice law, deeming his actions inconsistent with the dignity of the legal profession. Disciplinary proceedings are set to follow.
The Chief Justice, undeterred, continued the court proceedings, instructing the court to remain focused and not be distracted by the disruption.
[CJI BR Gavai, Rakesh Kishore, Supreme Court, Sanatan Dharma, Bar Council of India, legal profession, courtroom incident, Vishnu idol remark]