A shocking incident took place inside the Supreme Court of India on Monday when a lawyer allegedly tried to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during the court’s morning proceedings.
According to reports, the commotion broke out while the Bench headed by CJI Gavai was hearing the mentioning of cases. The lawyer suddenly approached the dais, removed his shoe, and appeared to prepare to throw it at the Chief Justice.
Before the situation could escalate, security personnel intervened immediately, restraining the lawyer and escorting him out of the courtroom. As he was being removed, the lawyer shouted, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (“We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan”).
Despite the disturbance, CJI Gavai remained composed, addressing those in the courtroom and instructing them not to get distracted. “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me,” he said, allowing the court’s proceedings to continue without disruption.
Possible reason behind the outburst
The lawyer’s outburst is believed to be linked to CJI Gavai’s remarks in a recent case concerning the restoration of a seven-foot beheaded Lord Vishnu idol in Khajuraho. While dismissing the plea, the Chief Justice had made a light-hearted comment, saying, “Go and ask the deity itself to do something now… You say you are a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, so go and pray.”
The observation had sparked controversy online, with several users accusing the CJI of disrespecting religious sentiments. However, a few days later, CJI Gavai clarified in open court that his words were taken out of context, saying, “I respect all religions. This happened on social media.”
Reaction and aftermath
The incident has raised serious questions about security within India’s apex court, as such physical attempts against sitting judges are extremely rare. However, the CJI’s calm and dignified handling of the situation drew appreciation from many present inside the courtroom.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, had earlier defended the CJI amid the online controversy, noting humorously, “There’s Newton’s law that says every action has an equal and opposite reaction. But now, every action has a disproportionate social media reaction, milord.”
While the motive behind the lawyer’s act is being investigated, the Supreme Court proceedings resumed smoothly — with CJI Gavai reiterating that such incidents “do not affect” the functioning or integrity of the judiciary.
