Rakesh Kishore barred from practice after attempted attack on CJI in SC

October 9, 2025

New Delhi: The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) on Thursday terminated the membership of Rakesh Kishore (71), the lawyer who attempted to assault Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai, with immediate effect. The SCBA said the lawyer’s conduct was a serious violation of professional ethics, decorum and the dignity of the Supreme Court.

Meanwhile, the All India Advocates Association in Bengaluru has filed an FIR against Rakesh Kishore. The Bengaluru police have registered the FIR under sections 132 and 133 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). CJI Gavai has denied filing a complaint against the lawyer.

On October 6th, Rakesh attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice Gavai inside the Supreme Court. The shoe failed to reach the CJI. The CJI’s bench was hearing a case at the time. Security personnel apprehended the lawyer and escorted him out. During the incident, he shouted slogans like, “India will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma.”

The police released the lawyer after questioning him for three hours.

The lawyer who threw the shoe was detained by police and interrogated for three hours on the Supreme Court campus. Police stated that SC officials had not filed any complaint in the matter. The lawyer was released after speaking with them.

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) cancelled the accused lawyer’s license that same day. His registration dates back to 2011. The Bar Council of India (BCI) also immediately suspended him.

Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra issued this order. He stated that this violates the rules of conduct for lawyers. During the suspension, Kishore will not be able to practice anywhere. A show-cause notice will also be issued within 15 days.