Supreme Court: Lawyer tries to throw shoe at CJI Gavai; Escorted out by security

October 6, 2025

New Delhi: A major drama erupted in the Supreme Court on Monday when a lawyer tried to attack the bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during the mention of cases in the morning. The lawyer allegedly took off his shoe and tried to throw it at the CJI, but security personnel stopped him before he could cause any harm.

According to sources, the lawyer reached the stage shouting slogans and was heard saying, “Sanatan ka apaman nahi sahenge” (We will not tolerate insult to Sanatan Dharma). There was a brief interruption in the court, but the CJI remained calm and asked the lawyers present to avoid distractions.

“Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things don’t affect me,” Justice Gavai said.

The incident is believed to be linked to CJI Gavai’s earlier comments during the hearing of a case regarding the restoration of a 7-foot beheaded statue of Lord Vishnu at Khajuraho. While dismissing the petition, the CJI had remarked, “Go and ask the deity himself to do something… this is an archaeological site and the ASI needs to give permission.”

The comment sparked outrage on social media, with some accusing the CJI of hurting religious sentiments. In response, CJI Gavai clarified in open court that he did not mean to disrespect any religion.

“I respect all religions… this happened on social media,” he said. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta also defended the CJI, noting how social media tends to over-exaggerate issues.

The Supreme Court security team immediately escorted the lawyer out of the courtroom. No injuries were reported, and the proceedings resumed without any disruption.