PM Modi Condemns Attack on CJI BR Gavai in Supreme Court
New Delhi, October 6, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday condemned the attack on Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice B.R. Gavai inside the Supreme Court premises, calling it “utterly condemnable” and an insult to the dignity of India’s judiciary.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Spoke to Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai Ji. The attack on him earlier today in the Supreme Court premises has angered every Indian. There is no place for such reprehensible acts in our society. It is utterly condemnable.”
He also lauded Justice Gavai’s composure, stating that his calm response reflected his deep commitment to constitutional values and justice. “I appreciated the calm displayed by Justice Gavai in the face of such a situation. It highlights his commitment to the values of justice and strengthening the spirit of our Constitution,” PM Modi added.
The incident occurred during court proceedings when an advocate allegedly attempted to throw a shoe at the CJI. The courtroom was briefly disrupted as security personnel quickly restrained the individual. Witnesses reported that the man shouted slogans referencing the “protection of Sanatan Dharma” before being escorted out by security.
According to Delhi Police, the man, identified as advocate Kishore, was detained but later released after the Supreme Court Registrar declined to initiate criminal proceedings. A note recovered from his possession reportedly stated: “Mera sandesh har sanatani ke liye hai… Sanatan Dharma ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan” (“My message is for all followers of Hinduism… India will not tolerate disrespect towards Sanatan Dharma”).
Reports indicate that Kishore was upset over CJI Gavai’s earlier remarks during a hearing concerning the reconstruction of a Lord Vishnu idol at a Khajuraho temple. The CJI had clarified that the matter fell under the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) jurisdiction and reiterated his respect for all religions.
Widespread Political Condemnation
The attack has drawn strong reactions from across the political spectrum. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi called it an “assault on the dignity of the judiciary and the spirit of the Constitution.” In a post on X, Gandhi said, “Such hatred has no place in our nation and must be condemned.”
Senior leaders including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also condemned the incident, urging respect for democratic institutions and judicial independence.
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) issued joint statements denouncing the act as “scandalising the office of the Chief Justice of India.” Both bodies urged for contempt proceedings against the lawyer involved. The Bar Council of India has since suspended the advocate’s license pending further inquiry.
Legal experts and former judges have termed the attack “unprecedented,” stressing the need for enhanced courtroom security and stricter professional accountability for lawyers.
Nation Stands with Judiciary
The episode has sparked a broader conversation on maintaining decorum and mutual respect within judicial institutions. Citizens and legal professionals alike have voiced solidarity with the Chief Justice and condemned attempts to disrupt the sanctity of India’s highest court.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the vital importance of upholding judicial dignity and safeguarding the independence of India’s justice system—core pillars of the nation’s democracy.