New Delhi | 6 October 2025: The Supreme Court witnessed an unexpected disturbance on Monday when a lawyer attempted to hurl a shoe towards Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai inside the courtroom. The man was reportedly shouting slogans defending Sanatan Dharma, accusing the Chief Justice of “disrespecting Hindu beliefs.”
According to witnesses, the lawyer stood up during a hearing and shouted, “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahenge!” (We will not tolerate insult to Sanatan Dharma) before he was restrained by security personnel. The courtroom was momentarily shocked, but the situation was quickly brought under control.
CJI’s calm reaction
Despite the chaos, CJI Gavai remained composed. Addressing lawyers present in the hall, he said,
Let’s not get distracted. These acts do not affect me.
The hearing resumed within minutes, demonstrating the court’s firm stance on maintaining discipline and composure in judicial proceedings.
Background of the case
The incident is linked to an earlier petition seeking the reconstruction of a damaged idol of Lord Vishnu at the historic Javari Temple in Khajuraho. The bench led by CJI Gavai had dismissed the plea, describing it as “a publicity-interest litigation.” During the hearing, the CJI had reportedly made a light-hearted remark, which some individuals interpreted as offensive towards Sanatan Dharma — sparking outrage among certain groups on social media.
Security and disciplinary action
Court security officials swiftly escorted the protesting lawyer out of the premises. Reports suggest that his identity has been verified and that disciplinary proceedings could be initiated by the Bar Council of India (BCI) for breaching courtroom decorum.
Legal experts react
Legal commentators condemned the act, calling it an “unprecedented attack on the dignity of the judiciary.”
Advocate R. Menon said, “Differences of opinion must be voiced legally. Resorting to such behaviour inside the Supreme Court undermines faith in justice itself.”
Public response
The incident has stirred mixed reactions online — some users expressed anger over the alleged remarks, while others praised the CJI for his calm and dignified response.
