The Bar Council of India (BCI) has taken stern action against 71-year-old lawyer Rakesh Kishore, who allegedly attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Gavai during a Supreme Court hearing on Monday. The BCI revoked Kishore’s licence and suspended him from practicing law across the country with immediate effect.
In its order issued on Monday, the BCI stated that Kishore is barred from appearing before any court, tribunal, or authority in India and cannot represent or argue on behalf of any client in legal proceedings.
On Tuesday, Kishore defended his actions, telling ANI, “I was deeply hurt when, on September 16, during a hearing of a PIL, CJI Gavai mocked the matter. He said, ‘Pray to the idol and ask it to restore its head.’ When cases related to other communities are heard, the CJI takes major steps. But when a case related to Sanatan Dharma comes up, it is brushed aside, which pains me deeply. Although I am against violence, the country should consider why a non-violent person like me was forced to act this way. It wasn’t because I was intoxicated, it was a reaction to his actions.”
The incident has sparked nationwide debate over courtroom conduct and professional ethics. On Tuesday, the All India Lawyers Union organised a protest at the Supreme Court, condemning the act and calling for restraint and discipline among legal professionals.
Advocate Subhash Chandran KR told ANI, “It is highly condemnable. The attack is on the Indian judiciary. An attack against the Chief Justice of India is an attack on the Constitution and the Indian judicial system. The entire society should condemn it. We support the CJI and the Constitution and will protest this atrocious act. A criminal FIR
should be registered, and contempt of court proceedings should be initiated. This should be the last such incident.”
However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with CJI and wrote on X, "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."
"I appreciated the calm displayed by Justice Gavai in the face of such a situation. It highlights his commitment to values of justice and strengthening the spirit of our Constitution." the PM said.
The incident occurred during a court hearing on Monday. Delhi Police detained Kishore for questioning and released him after nearly three hours of interrogation. According to reports, the Supreme Court Registrar General declined to file a formal case against him.
