On Monday, a shocking incident unfolded in the Supreme Court when a lawyer hurled a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai. The attack took place during a session where the court was hearing mentions of cases. The lawyer, identified as 71-year-old Rakesh Kishore, suddenly approached the bench, removed his shoe, and attempted to throw it at the CJI. Thankfully, security personnel acted swiftly, preventing any harm by immediately intervening and escorting the lawyer out of the courtroom.

As he was being taken away, the lawyer shouted slogans protesting what he called an insult to “Sanatan,” saying, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (We will not tolerate any insult to Sanatan). The incident caused widespread shock and condemnation across the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the incident on social media, expressing his anger and condemning the act as “utterly condemnable.” He also spoke directly with CJI Gavai and praised the judge for maintaining calm in the face of the attack. Modi said the incident had “angered every Indian” and stressed that there was no place for such reprehensible behavior in society. He also commended the Chief Justice’s composure, saying it reflected his commitment to justice and upholding the Constitution.

The Supreme Court Bar Association moved quickly to suspend the lawyer’s license to practice, signaling zero tolerance for such conduct from members of the legal fraternity. Leaders from all political backgrounds also spoke out strongly against the attack.

Congress parliamentary party chairperson Sonia Gandhi condemned the act and urged the nation to stand united with the Chief Justice. She called the attack “an assault not just on him but on our Constitution as well,” emphasizing the seriousness of the breach of judicial dignity.

Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, described the attack as “an assault on the dignity of our judiciary and the spirit of our Constitution.” He added that such hatred had no place in the country and must be firmly condemned.

Senior lawyer and former Union Law Minister Kapil Sibal also condemned the act, calling it “uncivilized behavior” and an affront to the majesty of the Supreme Court.

The shoe-hurling incident has raised serious concerns about respect for judicial institutions and the need for stronger security and decorum in court premises. However, the swift action taken by court security and legal bodies has reassured the public that such acts will not be tolerated.