A dramatic incident unfolded inside the Supreme Court on Monday (October 6) when a lawyer attempted to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during court proceedings. The CJI, however, remained composed and instructed that the hearing continue uninterrupted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed strong condemnation over the incident and personally spoke to CJI BR Gavai on Monday evening. Sharing a post on social media, PM Modi said, “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.”
He further commended Justice Gavai’s composure, stating, “I appreciated the calm displayed by Justice Gavai in the face of such a situation. It highlights his commitment to the values of justice and strengthening the spirit of our Constitution.”
According to reports, the courtroom chaos erupted as a bench headed by CJI Gavai was hearing lawyers mentions of pending cases. In the midst of proceedings, a man, later identified as Advocate Rakesh Kishore, suddenly approached the dais, removed his shoe, and tried to throw it toward the Chief Justice.
Before the shoe could reach its target, Supreme Court security personnel intervened, overpowering the lawyer and escorting him out of the courtroom. As he was being restrained, Kishore shouted loudly, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (We will not tolerate any insult to Sanatan), startling those present in the chamber.
Despite the sudden commotion, CJI Gavai maintained his composure and directed that proceedings should continue as normal. Turning to the advocates present, he said calmly, “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me.”
Following the incident, Supreme Court security officials initiated an internal investigation to determine how the lawyer managed to approach the bench and attempt the act. Authorities are also probing the background and motive of the individual, who appeared to act in protest against CJI Gavai’s recent remarks.
Kishore’s outburst might be linked to a recent controversy surrounding comments made by the Chief Justice during a hearing related to the Javari Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.
The episode comes days after CJI Gavai faced criticism for his remarks during a hearing on a plea seeking reconstruction of a seven-foot Lord Vishnu idol at the UNESCO-listed Javari Temple. During the hearing, the Chief Justice had observed, “This is purely publicity interest litigation. Go and ask the deity himself to do something.”
The statement drew sharp reactions from several Hindu groups and social media users, who accused the CJI of showing disrespect toward Hindu beliefs. Some even demanded a formal apology, terming the comments “insensitive” and “mocking.”
In response, CJI Gavai later clarified that his remarks had been taken out of context, saying, “Someone told me the other day that the comments I made have been portrayed on social media in a certain manner. I respect all religions.”
Despite this clarification, the controversy appeared to have left sections of the community unconvinced, culminating in Monday’s incident.
After the brief disruption, the bench resumed its work. No injuries were reported, and no damage occurred within the courtroom. The Supreme Court registry is expected to submit a detailed report on the incident to the security wing.
Officials said enhanced screening measures may be introduced temporarily to prevent similar incidents inside the apex court.
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