Date: 06.10.2025
Resolution No. – SCBA/EC-2025-26/
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) issued a statement condemning the recent attack on the Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, by its temporary member advocate. The SCBA has also clarified that it is contemplating appropriate disciplinary actions against the offending advocate, Rakesh Kishore, who attempted to hurl a shoe at the CJI.
The incident occurred when the advocate attempted to hurl a shoe at the CJI inside the courtroom. The SCBA stated that it is contemplating strict disciplinary action against the advocate involved. The attack reportedly took place due to misleading social media posts and false portrayals of the CJI’s remarks in the Vishnu Idol Case, concerning the restoration of a 7-feet Vishnu Idol at the Javari Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.
The SCBA described the act as a “direct assault on judicial independence” and said it violated constitutional values of decorum and discipline. The Association clarified that the CJI had earlier issued a clarification, stating that he respected all religions and that his remarks were made only in the context of legal jurisdiction, as the temple fell under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It further stressed that the bond between the Bar and the Bench must not be threatened by such acts, as both are pillars of the justice system.
The SCBA reaffirmed its commitment to secularism, fraternity, and the rule of law, and warned against politicising or scandalising the judiciary. It called the attack a disgrace to the legal profession and a betrayal of the advocate’s oath to uphold the majesty of law.
The SCBA praised the CJI for maintaining calm and composure despite the provocation, calling his response an example of judicial dignity. The SCBA also criticised certain sections of the media for spreading sensationalised and misleading reports about the CJI’s remarks. The Association referred to such coverage as “predatory journalism”, stating that it cannot be justified under freedom of speech and harms the rule of law.
The SCBA urged the media to exercise restraint and responsibility in reporting court proceedings. Reaffirming its solidarity with the Chief Justice and the Supreme Court, the SCBA said that any attempt to intimidate or insult judges is criminal in nature and must be dealt with fir.
