Proceedings in the Supreme Court of India were briefly disrupted on Monday after a lawyer attempted to throw a shoe at CJI (Chief Justice of India) B.R. Gavai during a hearing. The incident took place inside the packed courtroom and was quickly brought under control by security personnel.
Eyewitnesses said the lawyer, dressed in his professional robes, shouted slogans including “Sanatan ka apmaan nahin sahenge” (“We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma”) before hurling an object in the direction of the bench. Some present reported it was a shoe, while others described it as a rolled-up piece of paper. The man was immediately restrained and escorted out of the court.
Chief Justice’s Reaction
Despite the unexpected disruption, CJI Gavai remained calm and chose not to dwell on the matter. He told the court, “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me.” Proceedings resumed shortly afterwards without further disturbance.
Background of the Case
The protest was linked to an earlier petition seeking the reconstruction and reinstallation of a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu in the Javari Temple at Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. The Supreme Court had dismissed the plea, with Justice Gavai calling it a “publicity interest litigation.”
During that hearing, he had remarked that if the petitioner truly wished to see the idol reinstated, they should “go ask the deity” rather than approach the court. The bench had also observed that such issues fell within the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), not the judiciary. It noted that Khajuraho already contains several important temples, including shrines to Lord Shiva, and worshippers were not without alternatives.
Security and Disciplinary Action
Security officials at the Supreme Court quickly brought the situation under control, and no injuries or damage were reported. The lawyer’s identity has not been formally disclosed, but officials confirmed that disciplinary action will be pursued. The Bar Council is expected to take note of the incident, which may attract professional consequences for the individual.
Broader Significance
The incident underlines the sensitive nature of religious matters in the country’s highest court. While many petitions on faith-related issues reach the Supreme Court, judges have repeatedly stressed that not all disputes of sentiment or devotion can be adjudicated by law.
Monday’s disruption, though unusual, was handled without escalation. By choosing to downplay the episode and move forward, CJI Gavai signaled that the dignity and business of the court would not be sidetracked by protests inside the courtroom.
