New Delhi: The Supreme Court’s Registrar General chose not to press charges against 71-year-old advocate Rakesh Kishore, who attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai inside the court premises. Following the decision, the Delhi Police released Kishore immediately after a brief detention within the Supreme Court complex.
The Bar Council of India (BCI) has issued an interim suspension order barring Kishore from practicing law until further notice. Chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra described Kishore’s actions as inconsistent with the dignity of the court, citing violations of the Advocates Act, 1961, and the Bar Council of India Rules.
Witnesses reported that Kishore shouted slogans defending “Sanatan Dharma” before security personnel restrained him and escorted him out of the courtroom. The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Officers and Employees Association (SCOARA) condemned the act, calling it a direct affront to the judiciary and recommending contempt proceedings against the advocate.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta attributed the incident to misinformation circulating on social media. He also commended Chief Justice Gavai for maintaining composure during the disruption.
Observers note that Kishore’s motives remain unclear. It is uncertain whether he acted in protest against a prior Supreme Court decision on reconstructing a Lord Vishnu idol at a Khajuraho temple or due to personal opposition to the Dalit Chief Justice. The incident has sparked debate over courtroom security and the responsibilities of legal practitioners.
