The Supreme Court of India witnessed a rare and unsettling disruption on Monday when a lawyer attempted to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during a hearing.
The accused, reportedly a Bar Association member since 2011, shouted, “India will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma,” before being detained by security personnel.
The incident stems from controversy surrounding CJI Gavai’s earlier remarks during a plea related to a damaged Vishnu idol in Madhya Pradesh. His comment — “Go and ask the deity itself” — had sparked backlash from religious groups and legal circles alike.
Despite the chaos, CJI Gavai remained composed, instructing the bench to continue proceedings: “Don’t get distracted by all this. These things do not affect me.”
Supreme Court lawyer Rohit Pandey condemned the act, calling for disciplinary action and reaffirming the need to uphold courtroom sanctity. The Chief Justice later clarified that his remarks were misrepresented and reiterated his respect for all religions.
The episode has reignited debates on religious sensitivity, judicial accountability, and the boundaries of protest within India’s legal institutions.
