New Delhi: Proceedings before CJI Gavai were briefly interrupted on Monday when a lawyer allegedly tossed a shoe toward the bench. The shoe did not reach the Chief Justice. Security personnel acted at once and detained the individual. As he was led out, he raised a slogan about defending Sanatan values.
The Chief Justice addressed the courtroom with composure. He asked counsel to continue submissions and said such acts do not disturb him. Consequently, the bench proceeded with the matter, signaling resilience and focus.
CJI Gavai incident shows zero tolerance as SCBA and BCI act fast
Disciplinary measures followed rapidly. The Supreme Court Bar Association canceled the lawyer’s license. Officials identified him as Rakesh Kishor Kumar, on the rolls since 2011. In parallel, the Bar Council of India imposed immediate suspension. BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra issued the order, terming the act a breach of conduct norms.
The suspension bars him from practice anywhere. Furthermore, BCI will send a show-cause notice within 15 days. Therefore, the next steps will involve a formal explanation and the council’s adjudication under its rules.
In a statement, SCBA expressed sorrow and firm condemnation. It said such behavior is unacceptable and undermines the bond of respect between the court and the bar. Moreover, it warned that any attempt to weaken this bond damages public faith in justice.
The incident sparked reflection on courtroom safety and bar ethics. However, the Supreme Court’s functioning remained steady. Additionally, the combined response from SCBA and BCI underlined a consistent standard: advocacy demands restraint, not rage.
Looking ahead, the matter shifts to due process. The show-cause notice will frame the defense, and the council will decide next steps. Meanwhile, regular hearings continue, and litigants will find the courts operating as usual.
