Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai has found himself in a controversy recently after comments made during a hearing at the Supreme Court on the restoration of a broken Lord Vishnu idol at the Madhya Pradesh Khajuraho temple complex.
The Controversial Remarks
On Sept 16, 2025, while hearing a plea to restore and re-install a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu at the Javari Temple, CJI Gavai rejected the petition, terming it as “publicity interest litigation.” He also said, “Go and request the deity himself to do something. If you are telling me that you are a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, then you pray and do some meditation.”
These remarks triggered widespread outrage, especially from sections of the Hindu community, who felt that the remarks were insulting to their religious beliefs.
Attempted Attack in Court
The row deepened on October 6, 2025, when activist Rakesh Kishore had reportedly tried to hurl a shoe at CJI Gavai during a hearing in the Supreme Court. Kishore asserted that he had acted on the orders of his divine force, asserting, “Parmatma ne bola tha, isliye kiya” (“God told me, so I did it”).
The incident received instant condemnation from the legal fraternity, with protests being held in different states, such as Karnataka and Telangana, calling for stringent action against the perpetrator.
Response by CJI and Clarification
In the wake of the incident, CJI Gavai responded calmly to the situation. He stated, “These things do not affect me,” and appealed to the legal fraternity to stay the course and perform their duties.
With respect to the earlier statements, the CJI explained that he has regard for all faiths and reiterated his adherence to secularism. He stated that his remarks had been taken out of context on social media and apologized if they had hurt anyone’s sentiments.
Legal and Institutional Responses
The Bar Council of India immediately suspended advocate Rakesh Kishore from practicing law in any court with effect from the date of suspension, owing to the gravity of the incident.
Attack was condemned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well, calling it an attack on the judiciary and democracy. Modi appreciated CJI Gavai for his serenity in adversity.
The scandal of CJI Gavai’s statement and the subsequent event at the Supreme Court have highlighted the delicate overlap of religion and law in India. While the CJI has issued a clarification of his position and shown respect for all religions, the incident has raised controversies regarding the limits of judicial observation and the correct avenues for redress of grievances.
As the legal community and the public continue to reflect on these events, it remains to be seen how they will influence the discourse on judici
