NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 06, 2025: In a shocking incident and bringing disrespect to the Indian Constitution, a lawyer has allegedly attempted to attack Chief Justice of India BR Gavai inside the Supreme Court courtroom in New Delhi on Monday.
The incident occurred while cases before the bench headed by the CJI were being called. The lawyer, Rakesh Kishore, allegedly approached the dais and attempted to remove his shoe with the apparent intent to throw it at Gavai. Security personnel were swift to act and stopped the man before he could proceed further. He was escorted out of the premises.
The lawyer was heard shouting, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan),” it is learnt.
BR Gavai, a Dalit CJI, however, remained calm and called for focus in the courtroom. “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me,” he remarked, before allowing the proceedings to continue.
A few days ago, the chief justice had made comments in a previous case related to the restoration of a 7-foot beheaded idol of Lord Vishnu at Khajuraho. While dismissing that case, he 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 now. It’s an archaeological site and ASI needs to give permission etc.”The CJI said that it is not Public Interest Litigation (PIL) but Publicity Interest Litigation.
The observation had caused a storm on social media, with many accusing the CJI of hurting religious sentiments. Addressing the controversy in open court two days later, CJI Gavai said that he meant no disrespect. “I respect all religions…This happened on social media, he said. The police have nabbed the lawyer, and the Supreme Court security is questioning.
