Shoe Attack on CJI Gavai Prompts Leaders’ Strong Constitutional Defense
Opposition, governors denounce shoe-hurling attempt on Justice Gavai.
The attempt by a 71-year-old lawyer, Rakesh Kishore, to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai during Supreme Court proceedings on Monday has elicited strong condemnation from political leaders and governors across India, who described the act as an assault on the Constitution, democracy, and the legacy of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. The incident, accompanied by Kishore’s shouts of “Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge” (We will not tolerate insults to Sanatan Dharma), has prompted a unified response underscoring concerns over communal tensions and the protection of judicial institutions.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren condemned the act as an “assault on the soul of democracy” and equivalent to “raising a hand against the nation’s Constitution.” In a post on X, he called it a “cowardly act,” stressing the judiciary’s foundational role in democratic governance.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut characterized Kishore as a “fake Hindutvawadi” and a “creation of BJP’s training centre,” positioning the attack as a direct challenge to Ambedkar’s ideals and the Constitution.
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West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose termed it a “dastardly act” that threatens the judiciary’s dignity, calling for the “strictest action” against the perpetrator. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated, “Such anti-social acts find no place in a democratic society governed by the Constitution of India.”
Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati called the incident “extremely unfortunate,” asserting “no amount of condemnation would be enough.” Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin denounced the act, linking it to an “oppressive and hierarchical mindset,” while Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan viewed it as a reflection of “Sangh Parivar’s hatred,” cautioning against treating it as isolated.
NCP-SP’s Sharad Pawar described it as a “grave insult” to the Constitution, and CPI(M)’s Politburo and CPI’s D Raja condemned it as a product of “Manuvadi and communal venom.” Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav called it an “arrogant insult” affecting both the judiciary and marginalized communities.
This collective response from opposition figures and state leaders highlights the significance of the incident involving the first Dalit CJI, prompting calls for enhanced safeguards and accountability to preserve India’s democratic framework.
Also Read: Opposition Condemns Shoe Attack on CJI, Demands Justice and Accountability
