Leaders across India, including Andhra Pradesh and Telangana CMs, condemned the shocking shoe attack on Chief Justice B.R. Gavai at the Supreme Court, calling it an assault on the judiciary and a threat to India’s democratic and constitutional integrity.
A shocking incident at the Supreme Court on Monday, where an elderly man attempted to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai, has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders across party lines and states. The incident, viewed as an attack on the sanctity of the judiciary, has prompted strong responses from leaders in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, among others.
According to eyewitnesses, the disruption occurred shortly after the first case of the day was taken up. The accused, later identified as Kishore Rakesh—holding a proximity card usually issued to lawyers and clerks—reportedly shouted, “India won’t tolerate Sanatan’s insult,” before hurling the shoe, which fell short of the bench. Security personnel immediately restrained him.
Displaying remarkable composure, Chief Justice Gavai responded calmly to the incident, stating, “I am the last person to be affected by such things,” and continued with the day’s proceedings uninterrupted. The man’s motives remain under investigation, but initial reports suggest a connection to a recent controversy involving comments made by Justice Gavai during a hearing related to the reconstruction of a damaged idol of Lord Vishnu in Khajuraho. Following online outrage, the CJI clarified that his remarks had been misrepresented and reiterated his respect for all religions.
Naidu, Reddy, and Kalyan Condemn the Attack
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu was among the first to issue a statement. “I strongly condemn the attack on the Chief Justice of India, Justice B.R. Gavai Ji. Such actions are unacceptable and have no place in a civilised and democratic society. Upholding the dignity of our judiciary is fundamental to the functioning of our democracy,” Naidu posted on X.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed outrage over the incident, calling it “a dark day in our country’s history.” He wrote, “Words cannot express my condemnation at this dastardly attempt to attack and intimidate the highest functionary of the country’s judicial pillar. I stand with all citizens in expressing solidarity with our intrepid CJI, who bravely declared he won’t be cowed down by such cowardly attacks.”
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also condemned the incident, linking it to the erosion of constitutional morality. “The attempt to attack the Hon’ble CJI is deeply disturbing, and we condemn this act unconditionally. We understand the profound sentiments involved, but an error of path is still a transgression of Dharma. Sanatana wisdom demands Vyavahara (adherence to law) and constitutional respect above all,” he said.
Kalyan further emphasized, “Our ancient texts teach that justice is achieved through process, not passion. JanaSena stands firmly with the dignity of the CJI’s office.”
Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy described the incident as “disgraceful and deeply disturbing.” He noted that “this is not only an assault on an individual but an affront to the dignity of our highest judicial institution.” Reddy urged unity in “upholding the integrity of our institutions” and called for responsible conduct in public life.
Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister Nara Lokesh also expressed strong disapproval. “Such attempts to intimidate the judiciary have no place in a democracy and must be dealt with firmly,” he said, praising the Chief Justice for upholding constitutional values with composure.
National Leaders Join in Outrage
Union Minister for Food and Civil Supplies Pralhad Joshi called the act “intolerable” and “inexcusable.” He added, “Despite being attacked, Justice Gavai displayed calm and harmony. This has further enhanced the dignity of the judiciary.”
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara also denounced the incident, calling it a “grave insult to the country’s judicial system and the Constitution.” He remarked that Justice Gavai, who hails from a marginalized community, represents the triumph of social justice through education and merit. “The religious fanatics of the so-called Sanatan culture have exposed their vile mindset within the premises of the Supreme Court,” he said, urging strict legal action against the accused.
Priyank Kharge: ‘Attack on Constitution Itself’
Karnataka Minister for RDPR, IT and BT, Priyank Kharge, termed the episode “a terroristic assault on justice itself.” In a strongly worded statement, he said, “Today, the proponents of ‘Manuvad’ have hurled a shoe at none other than the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. This is not merely an attack on an individual, but an attack on the Constitution.”
Kharge went on to question whether the nation’s governance is being run according to the Constitution or the “Manusmriti propagated by the RSS.” He asserted that the incident symbolizes “the continued oppression of the oppressed, even when one of them has risen to the country’s highest constitutional position.”
Nation Rallies Behind the Judiciary
The incident, unprecedented in the history of the Indian judiciary, has triggered a wave of public concern and solidarity. Across the political spectrum, leaders have united in emphasizing that the judiciary must remain above intimidation and disrespect.
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As investigations continue, the act has reignited debates around intolerance, fanaticism, and the growing hostility toward constitutional institutions. While Chief Justice Gavai’s dignified response has been widely praised, the event serves as a stark reminder of the need to protect the judiciary from any form of coercion or symbolic violence.
In a democracy, leaders and citizens alike have reaffirmed that respect for the judiciary is not optional—it is essential for the survival of justice itself.
