An Indian lawyer threw shoes at Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, after he got angry due to his remarks on a Hindu God. Lawyer Rakesh Kishore was attacked on Monday, and it is recorded as a major breach of the Supreme Court’s decorum and sanctity.
Three lawyers who were present in the courtroom have reportedly confirmed to the BBC that the incident took place as the shoes almost brushed the Chief Justice. The lawyer, Rakesh Kishore, who launched the attack, stated that the country will not tolerate any insult towards Sanatan Dharma. Kishore was rushed out of the courtroom by security personnel and was also suspended from his practice.
Anas Tanwir, another lawyer present inside the courtroom, said that the Chief Justice was calm during the entire incident. As per authorities, no charges have been filed against Mr Kishore, and there has been silence from the side of the Chief Justice on the entire episode. Kishore spoke to The Print and confirmed that the insult was due to his rage over Justice Gavai’s remarks in a petition regarding a heritage complex, where he made a statement against Lord Vishnu.
The statement spread like wildfire on the internet as everyone had different judgments on the same. The plea was regarding the reconstruction of a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu in a temple in Madhya Pradesh. Rejecting the petition, Justice Gavai remarked, “This is purely publicity interest litigation…Go and ask the deity himself to do something”.
The Chief Justice later issued a public statement accepting the criticism and stating that he respected all religions equally. Mr Kishore, in his response to The Print, iterated that he was at fault as he not just rejected the prayers but also made fun of Lord Vishnu.
The shoe-throwing incident is being condemned by every leader, and the Prime Minister joined in calling it an “utterly condemnable” act. Mr Modi also spoke with the Chief Justice and reportedly stated that the attack has made every Indian angry. The sentiments are justified as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is the highest chair of justice and impartiality, which must be respected.
