Shoe Attack on India’s Chief Justice Sparks National Outrage

Tue Oct 14 2025 07:01:46 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A shoe was thrown at India's Chief Justice BR Gavai during court proceedings, igniting a debate over respect for religious sentiments and the role of the judiciary.

In a shocking incident, Rakesh Kishore threw a shoe at Chief Justice BR Gavai in Delhi, reportedly in response to remarks made by the judge about Hinduism. This gesture, viewed as a major insult and a breach of security, has attracted wide condemnation from leaders across the political spectrum, including Prime Minister Modi. Kishore faces suspension from legal practice but no criminal charges. The incident raises questions about judicial respect and the intersection of law and religious beliefs in contemporary India.

A lawyer in India has hurled a shoe at Chief Justice BR Gavai during court proceedings, resulting in a major public uproar. This incident occurred after the chief justice made controversial remarks about Hindu deities, referencing a petition related to reconstructing a statue of Lord Vishnu.

Witnesses in the courtroom confirmed that the shoe brushed against the chief justice and another justice before falling behind them. Rakesh Kishore, the assailant, proclaimed that India won't tolerate insult to Sanatan Dharma as he was escorted out by security. Following this incident, he was suspended from practicing law.

The chief justice, remaining calm during the address, later stressed the need for the lawyers to continue with their arguments. No criminal charges are being pursued against Kishore, even as the incident has raised significant discussions regarding the interplay between religion and judicial commentary in India.

Justice Gavai’s remarks, viewed by some as mocking, drew criticism from various political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi who labeled the shoe attack as utterly condemnable. Modi emphasized that such acts have no place in Indian society.

Historically, throwing a shoe is regarded as an act of degradation across various cultures, including India. Previous instances include attacks on political figures that have had lasting impacts on public perception and political discourse.