The Supreme Court of India was rocked by an unprecedented incident on Monday when a 71-year-old advocate, dressed in traditional black robes, attempted to hurl a shoe towards Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai. The dramatic protest, accompanied by cries of “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahenge” – meaning “We will not tolerate the insult to Sanatan” – stemmed from outrage over a remark made by the CJI during a recent hearing. The advocate was swiftly escorted out, but the episode has sparked a nationwide debate on courtroom conduct, religious sensitivities, and the sanctity of India’s apex court.
The incident occurred in Courtroom No. 1 during routine proceedings. According to eyewitnesses, including lawyers and court staff, the advocate rose from the public gallery, brandished a shoe – or possibly a bundle of papers, as reports differ – and lobbed it toward the bench, missing widely. His chants of “Sanatan Dharma ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan!” (India will not tolerate disrespect to Sanatan Dharma) reverberated as security personnel promptly removed him. The outburst disrupted the court’s typically serene atmosphere, drawing gasps from those present.
The advocate’s actions were triggered by a comment from CJI Gavai during a September 20 hearing on a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the relocation of a Lord Krishna idol at the Khajuraho temples in Madhya Pradesh. The PIL, filed by a local devotee, raised concerns about encroachments by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) disrupting traditional worship. During the hearing, the CJI remarked, “Go ask your deity,” which some interpreted as dismissive of Hindu sentiments. This sparked criticism from petitioners and religious groups, who viewed it as disrespectful to Sanatan Dharma.
CJI Gavai, a seasoned jurist with a distinguished tenure at the Bombay High Court before his elevation, remained composed amid the chaos. Turning to his fellow justices, he stated calmly, “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me.” His poise allowed proceedings to continue uninterrupted, earning praise from legal observers for maintaining the court’s dignity under pressure.
The incident has prompted varied reactions. The Bar Council of India condemned the advocate’s actions as “unprofessional,” emphasizing the need for decorum in judicial spaces. Meanwhile, some right-wing groups, including the Vishva Hindu Parishad, have expressed support for the advocate, framing his act as a defense of faith. The Supreme Court has tightened security measures, and an inquiry into the incident is underway.
This episode raises critical questions about the intersection of law and religion in India. With cases like Sabarimala and Ayodhya shaping public discourse, how should advocates express dissent? The courtroom, a symbol of justice, demands respect from all stakeholders. As India grapples with balancing faith and legal propriety, this incident underscores the need for constructive dialogue over disruptive protests.
Lawcutor 