SCBA Condemns “Reprehensible Act” Against CJI Gavai, Slams Media for Fueling Outrage Over Distorted Remarks in Khajuraho Case
Supreme Court Bar Association condemns the act of an Advocate who attempted to attack CJI B.R. Gavai, calls it a direct assault on judicial independence
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the advocate who attempted to attack Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai inside his courtroom on October 6, calling the act “reprehensible,” “unbecoming of an officer of the Court,” and “a direct assault on judicial independence.”
The incident reportedly stemmed from a backlash to the Chief Justice’s observations in the Khajuraho Vishnu Idol Restoration case, where he had emphasized respect for all religions and later clarified his remarks following social media distortions.
Expressing “profound shock and outrage,” the SCBA said the behaviour “strikes at the very foundation of mutual respect that underpins the relationship between the Bench and the Bar” and undermines public confidence in the justice system.
Commending the “calm composure and exemplary restraint” shown by CJI Gavai, the Association reaffirmed its solidarity with the Chief Justice and the entire judiciary. It added that the advocate involved is only a temporary member of the SCBA, and disciplinary action is being contemplated.
"The SCBA further notes that the Advocate involved in this incident is a temporary member of the Association. The SCBA is contemplating appropriate disciplinary action against the said member," it states.
The statement also carried a sharp rebuke of sections of the media for “irresponsible and sensationalized reporting,” accusing them of amplifying misrepresented narratives of the CJI’s remarks to stoke public anger. The SCBA termed such coverage “predatory journalism” that “endangers the rule of law” and warned that freedom of speech cannot be a licence to malign constitutional institutions.
The Association reiterated its commitment to secularism, fraternity, and the rule of law, urging the Bar to maintain decorum and resist efforts to politicize or scandalize the judiciary.
Notably, the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCOARA) has also strongly condemned the recent act of an advocate who, through an unwarranted and intemperate gesture, attempted to disrespect the office of the Chief Justice of India and his companion judges.
Describing the conduct as “cowardly” and “unbecoming of a member of the Bar,” SCOARA said such behavior strikes at the core of mutual respect between the Bench and the Bar and undermines public faith in the justice delivery system.
SCOARA reaffirmed its solidarity with the Chief Justice of India and the Supreme Court, urging the legal fraternity to uphold professional decorum, preserve the dignity of the institution, and refrain from divisive conduct. The association further recommended that the Supreme Court may take suo motu cognizance of the incident and initiate appropriate proceedings for contempt, highlighting that freedom of speech carries a duty of restraint, particularly for officers of the Court.
Today morning, the Supreme Court of India witnessed a brief moment of chaos today when a lawyer attempted to attack the Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai, during ongoing proceedings.
The attacker, dressed in full uniform and carrying a bag along with a rolled-up bundle of papers, was quickly restrained and escorted out of the courtroom. As he was removed, he reportedly shouted, “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan,” sparking concern among those present. He later apologized to Justice K. Vinod Chandran, clarifying that his actions were intended only for Justice Gavai.
Despite the disruption, Justice Gavai maintained composure and continued with the hearing uninterrupted.
Recently, the CJI had clarified his remarks made during a recent hearing relating to the restoration of a 7-foot beheaded idol of Lord Vishnu at the Javari temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. "I respect all religions", CJI Gavai said today in court while responding to reactions on his comments made during the Khajuraho Vishnu Idol matter.
When a bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justice Vinod Chandran was told that the idol was mutilated during the Mughal invasions, refusing any relief, the CJI had said, "Go and ask the deity now. You say you are a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, so go and pray now". This comment resulted in a lot of backlash on social media calling out the CJI for not respecting the Hindu religion.
CJI Gavai referred to his remarks and said, "Someone told me the other day my comments have been portrayed on social media..I respect all religions..".
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta also came out in support of CJI Gavai and said, "I have known CJI for last ten years..this is serious..we know Newton's law, every action has equal reaction..now every action has disproportionate social media reaction..".
In the case, Supreme Court had opined that as Khajuraho is an archaeological site, the permission from Archeological Survey of India would be required. Filed by Rakesh Dalal, the petition claimed that the idol remained in that state despite repeated representations to the government to restore it. Dalal further told court that he had received a response from the Superintending Archaeologist that the responsibility of conservation of the Khajuraho temples lies with the Archaeological Survey of India and the replacement of the beheaded idol was against the conservation rules.
Soon enough, an Advocate had formally approached the Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai requesting reconsideration and withdrawal of remarks made during the hearing that allegedly hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus.
Resolution by: SCBA
Resolution date: October 6, 2025