Lawyer Attempts to Hurl Shoe at CJI Gavai Over Khajuraho Remarks, Released After Questioning
Upset over Justice Gavai’s remarks on Khajuraho temples, the elderly lawyer attempted to disrupt Supreme Court proceedings but was released after questioning, as no formal complaint was filed.
A dramatic incident unfolded in the Supreme Court on Monday, October 6, when a lawyer, identified as Rakesh Kishore, attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud’s bench — specifically targeting Justice B.R. Gavai. The lawyer, believed to be in his 70s, was immediately restrained and taken into custody, but was later released after the Supreme Court chose not to file any formal charges.
According to police officials, Kishore was deeply upset over Justice Gavai’s recent remarks in connection with a case related to the Khajuraho temples in Madhya Pradesh. The incident occurred just days after CJI Gavai dismissed a plea seeking restoration of a Lord Vishnu idol at the UNESCO-listed temple site. While rejecting the petition on September 16, Justice Gavai had remarked, “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.” He also noted that the site falls under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and any restoration would require their approval.
These comments triggered outrage in certain quarters, particularly on social media, with critics accusing the judge of being insensitive toward religious sentiments. A couple of days after the backlash, Justice Gavai addressed the controversy in open court, stating that he meant no disrespect and reaffirmed his respect for all religions.
During Monday’s incident, Kishore reportedly brought a piece of paper with him bearing the slogan: *“Sanatan dharma ka apmaan, nahi sahega Hindustan”* (India will not tolerate the insult to Sanatan Dharma or Hinduism). He was questioned by police for nearly three hours. A senior officer told *Hindustan Times* that Kishore holds multiple bar association cards and appears to have acted out of personal conviction rather than any organized agenda.
Despite the attempted disruption, no charges were pressed by the Supreme Court office, which also requested the release of the lawyer. His shoe and documents were returned, and he was allowed to leave without further action.
The incident has reignited conversations around judicial conduct, religious sensitivities, and the balance between freedom of expression and courtroom decorum.