In a significant security breach at a Delhi courtroom on Monday, an Indian lawyer named Rakesh Kishore threw a shoe at the country’s Chief Justice, BR Gavai. The act, considered a grave public insult in India, occurred during live court proceedings.
Eyewitnesses, including three lawyers present, confirmed the incident, with one stating the shoe brushed past the chief justice before landing behind him. As security officials apprehended and removed him, Mr. Kishore was heard shouting, “India won’t tolerate insult to Sanatan Dharma [Hinduism].” He has since been suspended from legal practice, although authorities have stated that no charges will be filed.
Lawyers in the courtroom noted that Chief Justice Gavai remained calm throughout the ordeal and instructed them to continue with their arguments without distraction.
While the exact remarks that provoked the lawyer are unclear, media reports suggest the incident may be linked to a controversial comment the chief justice made last month. While dismissing a petition to reconstruct an idol of the Hindu god Vishnu, a bench headed by Justice Gavai reportedly said, “Go and ask the deity himself to do something.” The remark was criticized by some for mocking Hindu beliefs, though the judge later stated that he respects “all religions.”
The attack drew widespread condemnation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident “utterly condemnable” and spoke with Justice Gavai, stating that the act had “angered every Indian.”
Throwing a shoe is a profound act of disrespect and humiliation in India and many cultures worldwide. Similar incidents have occurred internationally, including a shoe being thrown at then-US President George W. Bush in Iraq in 2008 and at Kenyan President William Ruto earlier this year.