A shocking security breach inside the Supreme Court of India on Monday has drawn condemnation from the highest levels of government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In what has been widely condemned as an assault on the judiciary itself, a 72-year-old lawyer attempted to throw a sneaker at Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai.
What Exactly Happened in the Courtroom?
The incident occurred around 11:35 AM in Court No. 1, where a bench led by CJI Gavai was hearing cases. Rakesh Kishore, the lawyer, came to the dais, took off his shoe, and attempted to toss it in the Chief Justice’s direction. Security personnel acted swiftly, intercepting Kishore and escorting him out of the courtroom. Kishore was heard yelling, “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (We will not allow any insult to Sanatan) as he was being taken away. CJI Gavai was remarkably composed in the face of the provocation, telling court staff to “simply disregard” the incident and to release Kishore following a warning.
How Did the Nation’s Leaders React?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to respond, stating that the incident “has angered every Indian.” In a post on X, he said he spoke to CJI Gavai, calling the act “utterly condemnable” and praising the judge’s composure. The condemnation was bipartisan. Congress leader Sonia Gandhi called it “an assault not just on him but on our Constitution,” while Rahul Gandhi stated it was an attack on the “dignity of our judiciary.” This unified political response underscored the gravity of the breach.
Spoke to Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai Ji. The attack on him earlier today in the Supreme Court premises has angered every Indian. There is no place for such reprehensible acts in our society. It is utterly condemnable.
I appreciated the calm displayed by Justice…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 6, 2025
Who is the Lawyer Behind the Attack?
Rakesh Kishore, a 72-year-old lawyer from Mayur Vihar, has shown no regret for his actions. In interviews, he stated he has “no remorse” and is “ready to face jail.” He claimed his anger was triggered by the CJI’s recent remarks in a case concerning a damaged idol at the Khajuraho temple complex, and also by the judge’s speech in Mauritius. Kishore made incoherent claims about being guided by a “divine force.”
But Supreme Court Bar Association colleagues characterized him as a fringe figure with little legal expertise, calling the act a “publicity stunt.”
What Are the Professional Consequences for the Lawyer?
The legal fraternity moved quickly to distance itself from Kishore’s behavior. The Supreme Court Bar Association suspended his license to practice, and the Bar Council of India suspended his membership. He is essentially prohibited from practicing law by these measures. “I am comfortable with that,” Kishore said in acknowledgment of getting the notice of suspension, demonstrating his lack of remorse. The episode has caused his own family to be embarrassed and angry, and Kishore acknowledged that they are “very upset.”
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What Does This Incident Reveal?
The event highlights a rare but serious vulnerability in the security of the nation’s top court. It also demonstrates the intense emotions that can surround religious and legal issues. Even though the attacker’s reasons are personal and debated, the swift, joint defense of the judiciary by the government and opposition shows how vital the institution is to Indian democracy.
