A Startling Breach in the Nation’s Apex Court
In a rare and shocking incident inside India’s highest judicial institution, a man dressed in a lawyer’s robe attempted to attack Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai during court proceedings on Monday. The event unfolded while the CJI-led Bench was hearing the routine “mentioning” of cases — a time when lawyers request urgent listings.
According to eyewitnesses, the accused, Rakesh Kishore, suddenly advanced toward the Bench and tried to remove his shoe, apparently intending to hurl it at the Chief Justice. Swift action by the courtroom security personnel prevented the assault, and Kishore was immediately restrained and escorted out of the courtroom.
The Outburst and Its Trigger
As security officials led him away, Kishore reportedly shouted, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” — translating to “We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan.” The outburst is believed to be connected to recent remarks by CJI Gavai in a case concerning the restoration of a seven-foot beheaded idol of Lord Vishnu in Khajuraho.
During the hearing, the CJI had dismissed the petition, observing wryly, “Go and ask the deity itself to do something now… It’s an archaeological site; ASI needs to grant permission.” The comment, although judicially contextual, drew widespread criticism online, with some groups accusing him of disrespecting Hindu sentiments.
Responding to the uproar a few days later, CJI Gavai clarified in open court, “I respect all religions. This controversy is purely a social media creation.” His calm and composed response to the attempted attack reinforced his earlier statement. “Don’t get distracted by this. We are not affected,” he told the courtroom before resuming proceedings.
Official Action and Legal Consequences
The Bar Council of India (BCI) swiftly condemned the act and announced the immediate suspension of advocate Rakesh Kishore from practice. A show-cause notice has been issued, requiring him to explain within 15 days why his suspension should not continue and why further disciplinary action should not follow.
The suspension order prohibits him from appearing, acting, or pleading before any court, tribunal, or authority across the country. The Bar Council of Delhi has been instructed to update its rolls and notify all relevant judicial bodies to enforce the suspension.
Broader Reflections on Judicial Decorum
The shocking incident has reignited discussions about security within courtrooms and the rising influence of social media outrage on public conduct. As Solicitor General Tushar Mehta remarked during the hearing, “There’s Newton’s law that every action has an equal reaction — but today, every action has a disproportionate social media reaction.”
A Lesson in Restraint and Respect
The attempted assault on the Chief Justice is more than an isolated act of anger; it highlights the growing volatility in public discourse and the urgent need to preserve decorum, tolerance, and respect for judicial independence. Even in moments of provocation, the judiciary’s calm response serves as a reminder — that justice stands firm only when guided by restraint, not retaliation.
(With agency inputs)
