Bar Council of India Suspends Advocate for Shoe Attack on CJI BR Gavai Amid PIL on Vishnu Idol
New Delhi – In a shocking incident this morning, advocate Rakesh Kishore attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during court proceedings. The Bar Council of India (BCI) responded immediately by suspending his license to practise law.
The attack took place at around 11:35 AM in Court No. 1 of the Supreme Court of India. Kishore reportedly removed his sports shoe and tried to hurl it at the Chief Justice. Security detained him on the spot.
The Bar Council of India issued an urgent suspension order under the Advocates Act, 1961 and the Bar Council Rules on Professional Conduct. The order states that Kishore violated rules that require advocates to act with dignity, maintain respect for the court, and avoid improper behaviour.
“You are debarred from appearing, acting, pleading, or practising in any court, tribunal, or authority in India during the period of suspension,” the BCI said in its order.
The BCI has also started disciplinary proceedings and issued a show-cause notice. Kishore must respond within 15 days, explaining why the suspension should not continue. The Bar Council of Delhi must now update his status, inform all relevant courts, and serve the order at his registered address and email. He must also file a compliance affidavit within 48 hours.
What Sparked the CJI BR Gavai Shoe Attack?
Kishore’s actions appear linked to a controversial Public Interest Litigation (PIL) he filed in court. In the PIL, he asked the government to restore the beheaded statue of Lord Vishnu in Khajuraho, claiming that Mughal rulers should have been responsible for the damage. He argued the state should now correct that “historical wrong.”
During the hearing, CJI BR Gavai reportedly remarked that “Lord Vishnu should mend his own head.” That off-the-cuff comment sparked outrage, especially from religious hardliners. Kishore, allegedly deeply offended, reacted by attempting the shoe attack.
Legal experts described the PIL as speculative and historically flawed. They noted that courts usually dismiss such cases as non-justiciable, meaning they do not warrant legal intervention.
Legal Community Responds
The legal fraternity swiftly condemned the attack. The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) is also considering disciplinary action against Kishore. Senior advocates called the act an “assault on the dignity of the court” and a dangerous precedent.
“This isn’t just contempt of court. It’s contempt of the entire legal system,” said a senior lawyer.
Was the CJI’s Remark Appropriate?
The incident raises a deeper debate: Should judges avoid comments that might offend religious sentiments, even during casual court observations?
Some argue that the CJI dismissed a legally weak PIL with a rhetorical remark. Others say judges should exercise restraint, especially in matters involving faith. But almost everyone agrees—resorting to violence or symbolic protest in court can never be justified.
What Happens Next?
Kishore now faces further disciplinary action. If he fails to justify his actions, the Bar Council could extend the suspension or even permanently disbar him. The legal process will unfold over the coming weeks, depending on his response and the findings of the inquiry.
This incident underscores growing tensions between free judicial speech, rising public sensitivities, and the critical need to protect the sanctity of the courtroom.
Source: LiveLaw: SCBA Weighs Disciplinary Action
A seasoned journalist with over 30 years of rich and diverse experience in print and electronic media, Prabha’s professional stints include working with Sahara English Magazine and JAIN TV and All India Radio. She has also produced several documentary films through her self-owned production house Gajpati Communications. She is also the Station Director of Aligarh-based FM Radio Station, and the General Secretary of WADA NGO.
