Advocate Attempts to Disrupt CJI Gavai's Court Session

NEW DELHI: A dramatic incident unfolded in the Supreme Court on Monday when an advocate attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai. This act was reportedly in protest against the CJI's recent comment, "go ask your deity," made during a hearing regarding the reconstruction of a Lord Vishnu idol in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

The advocate, dressed in a lawyer's robe, was heard shouting slogans as he was swiftly removed from the courtroom by security personnel. Witnesses reported that he exclaimed, "Sanatan Dharam ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan" (“India will not tolerate disrespect towards Sanatan Dharma”) while being escorted out. Some observers claimed he aimed a shoe, while others suggested he was throwing a roll of paper.

The courtroom experienced a brief disruption due to the incident, but proceedings resumed shortly after. In response to the commotion, CJI Gavai remarked, "Don't get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me."

This incident follows the Supreme Court's dismissal of a plea seeking the reconstruction and installation of a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu at the Javari Temple, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Khajuraho. The court described the petition as "publicity interest litigation" and advised the petitioner, Rakesh Dalal, to pray instead. CJI Gavai stated, "If you are saying you are a strong devotee of Lord Vishnu, then you pray and do some meditation."

The court noted that the matter fell under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and highlighted the complexities involved in such archaeological issues. CJI Gavai also suggested that those interested in worship could visit the nearby significant Shiva linga, one of the largest in Khajuraho, as an alternative.