Attack on CJI BR Gavai: BCI Suspends Advocate Rakesh Kishore After Courtroom Incident
The Bar Council of India (BCI) has suspended advocate Rakesh Kishore, enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi, for attempting to attack Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai inside the Supreme Court on Monday.
According to sources present in the courtroom, the incident occurred during the morning mentioning of cases. Kishore reportedly moved towards the dais, took off his sports shoes, and attempted to throw them at the CJI. However, security personnel immediately intervened and restrained him before any harm could occur. He was then escorted out of the courtroom.
While being removed, Kishore was allegedly heard shouting, “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahenge” (We will not tolerate insult to Sanatan Dharma).
Immediate Suspension by BCI
The Bar Council of India issued an interim suspension order under the Advocates Act, 1961, and the Bar Council of India Rules on Standards of Professional Conduct and Etiquette.
The order, signed by BCI Chairman and Senior Advocate Manan Kumar Mishra, bars Kishore from appearing, acting, pleading, or practising before any court, tribunal, or authority across India until further notice.
The Bar Council of Delhi has been instructed to update Kishore’s status on its rolls and notify all courts and tribunals under its jurisdiction. The registries of the Supreme Court, all High Courts, and District Courts have also been directed to circulate the suspension order to filing and appearance counters, as well as to Bar Associations, including the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).
Possible Trigger Behind the Incident
The incident is believed to be linked to a recent controversy surrounding CJI Gavai’s remarks in a case concerning the restoration of a 7-foot beheaded idol of Lord Vishnu at Khajuraho.
While dismissing the plea, the CJI had observed:
“Go and ask the deity itself to do something now. You say you are a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. So go and pray now. It’s an archaeological site and ASI needs to give permission etc.”
These remarks drew sharp criticism on social media, where several users accused the CJI of making statements that hurt religious sentiments.
CJI Gavai’s Clarification
Two days after the controversy erupted, CJI Gavai addressed the matter in open court, clarifying that his words had been misinterpreted.
“I respect all religions. This happened on social media,” he said, stressing that no disrespect was intended towards any faith or deity.
Despite the clarification, tensions appeared to have escalated, leading to Monday’s shocking episode in the courtroom.
BCI’s Stand on Professional Conduct
The BCI has termed the act as a serious breach of decorum and professional ethics, stressing that such behaviour tarnishes the image of the legal profession. The Council has assured that strict disciplinary action will follow after a full inquiry into the incident.
This incident has sparked widespread concern within the legal community about maintaining discipline, respect, and order in courtrooms — principles that lie at the heart of India’s judicial system.
