Lawyer Attempts to Throw Shoe at CJI BR Gavai in Supreme Court; PM Condemns Late, Sonia Gandhi Issues Rare Statement

In a shocking incident, 71-year-old advocate Rakesh Kishore attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai during proceedings in the Supreme Court on Monday. Kishore, dressed in full legal attire and carrying a bag with a rolled-up bundle of papers, shouted, “India will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma” as he was escorted out by security personnel.

The attack is believed to have been triggered by Kishore’s anger over remarks made by CJI Gavai during the dismissal of a petition on September 16 regarding the restoration of a Lord Vishnu idol at a temple in Khajuraho. The Chief Justice had then pointed out that the petitioner should seek relief from the Lord himself, not from the Court. Following criticism, he later clarified that he respects all religions.

The Bar Council of India (BCI) swiftly suspended Kishore’s license to practice law, describing the incident as an attack on the Constitution and on the dignity of the judiciary. Disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, and senior advocates across the country have condemned the act as “reprehensible” and “a brazen attack on democracy.”

Political reactions soon followed, though not all were immediate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi , who condemned the act only later in the evening, termed it “utterly condemnable” and said it had “angered every Indian,” while praising the CJI for his composure. Other NDA leaders , including the Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Home Minister Amit Shah, issued their condemnations only after the Prime Minister’s tweet, leading to criticism that they had waited for his cue before responding.

In a rare move, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi ,who generally refrains from reacting publicly to day-to-day events, issued a strong statement condemning the attack , calling it “an assault not just on him but on the Constitution.” Her statement drew attention precisely because she rarely comments on current events herself. Rahul Gandhi also condemned the attack, saying it undermined the dignity of the judiciary.

Leaders from other opposition parties, including Arvind Kejriwal and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy , also demanded strict action against the perpetrator and better security for judges.

Legal experts have warned that ideological extremism, if unchecked, could undermine faith in judicial institutions. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta , who was present during the incident, called it “unfortunate and condemnable,” while noting that social media tends to amplify such episodes.

Police have questioned Kishore, and courtroom security protocols are being reviewed. The Supreme Court resumed its proceedings soon after the disruption, with CJI Gavai maintaining composure throughout.

The incident has reignited debate over the safety of constitutional authorities, the role of political rhetoric in fuelling intolerance, and the need to reinforce respect for democratic institutions.