A dramatic incident unfolded inside the Supreme Court of India on Monday when a lawyer allegedly tried to attack Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during the mentioning of cases.
According to eyewitness accounts, the lawyer approached the dais and attempted to remove his shoe, seemingly to throw it at the CJI. Quick-thinking security personnel intervened immediately, preventing any physical harm and escorting the lawyer out of the courtroom.
As he was being removed, the lawyer reportedly shouted, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (“We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan”), referencing the recent social media outrage over the CJI’s earlier remarks in a case concerning a beheaded Lord Vishnu idol in Khajuraho.
Despite the commotion, CJI Gavai remained calm and composed, urging the lawyers present to continue their submissions. “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me,” he said, continuing the court’s proceedings without interruption.
Background of the controversy
The lawyer’s outburst is believed to be linked to CJI Gavai’s remarks made during the hearing of a plea seeking restoration of a seven-foot beheaded idol of Lord Vishnu at Khajuraho. Dismissing the plea, the CJI had said, “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 comment drew criticism on social media, with some alleging it hurt religious sentiments. However, in a later clarification, the CJI clarified in open court that his remarks were not intended to disrespect any religion, saying, “I respect all religions. This was misinterpreted on social media.”
Solicitor General’s support
Backing the Chief Justice, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta had remarked humorously that reactions in the digital age often spiral beyond proportion:
“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.”
The attempted attack has reignited discussions about security measures inside the Supreme Court, but it also highlighted the Chief Justice’s poise under pressure — reinforcing his statement that such disruptions “do not affect” him or the functioning of India’s apex court.
