A tense moment gripped Courtroom No. 1 of the Supreme Court on Monday when a lawyer attempted to throw an object at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during the morning proceedings. Swift intervention by security personnel thwarted the attempt, and the lawyer was immediately overpowered and detained.
The individual was later identified as advocate Rakesh Kishore, who was taken into custody and interrogated by senior police officers, including the Deputy Commissioners of Police for New Delhi and the Supreme Court security zone. According to witnesses, as Kishore was being escorted out, he shouted, “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan.”
Eyewitnesses said Kishore was dressed in full court attire, wearing his proximity card and carrying a bag and papers.
The incident occurred during the mentioning of cases, when Kishore reportedly approached the dais, removed his shoe, and appeared ready to hurl it at the CJI before being subdued by security personnel.
The episode drew widespread condemnation from the legal fraternity. Describing it as an “unprecedented and disgraceful act,” the Bar Council of India (BCI) issued an interim suspension order against Kishore, debarring him from practising law with immediate effect.
The order, signed by BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra, stated that his actions violated the Advocates Act, 1961, and the Bar Council of India Rules on Standards of Professional Conduct and Etiquette.
The order read: “This interim order is issued under the Advocates Act, 1961, and Chapter II (Part VI) of the Bar Council of India Rules on Standards of Professional Conduct and Etiquette, particularly Section I, Rules 1, 2 and 3, which require an advocate to conduct himself with dignity and self-respect in court, maintain a respectful attitude towards courts, and refrain from any illegal or improper means to influence judicial proceedings.”
Detailing the incident, the BCI noted:
“Based on prima facie material, it appears that at about 11:35 a.m. on 6 October 2025, in Court No. 1 of the Supreme Court of India, you, Advocate Rakesh Kishore (enrolment no. D/1647/2009, Bar Council of Delhi), removed your sports shoes and attempted to hurl them towards the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India during ongoing proceedings. You were detained by security. This conduct is inconsistent with the aforementioned rules and the dignity of the court.”
The order concluded: “In view of the foregoing, you, Advocate Rakesh Kishore, are suspended from practice with immediate effect.”
The Bar Council of Delhi has been directed to update its records to reflect the suspension and notify all courts and Bar associations. Registries of the Supreme Court, High Courts, and district courts have also been instructed to circulate the order at filing counters and Bar offices.
Former Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) secretary Rohit Pandey termed the episode “deeply disturbing” and called for stringent disciplinary action against those who bring disrepute to the legal profession.
According to sources, the outburst may have been linked to remarks made by the CJI in a previous hearing concerning the restoration of a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu at Khajuraho.
While dismissing that petition, the Chief Justice 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. It’s an archaeological site and ASI needs to give permission, etc.”
The remark had sparked sharp reactions on social media, with allegations that it hurt religious sentiments. Clarifying the controversy a few days later, CJI Gavai had said: “I respect all religions… This was misrepresented on social media.”
Police are investigating the matter further, and the Supreme Court administration is reviewing courtroom security protocols to prevent any recurrence.