Shoe Thrown at CJI Inside Supreme Court—Top Leaders Warn of Rising Fanaticism

The 71-year-old lawyer’s alleged attempt to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai inside the Supreme Court sent shockwaves across the nation, prompting strong condemnation from political leaders, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who labeled it a "reflection of hatred" propagated by the Sangh Parivar.

The incident occurred when the lawyer approached the dais, removed his shoe, and attempted to hurl it at CJI Gavai, shouting, "Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge" (We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma). Security personnel promptly intervened, escorting the lawyer out of the courtroom, preventing any harm.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, in a post on X, described the act as "alarming," warning that dismissing it as an individual outburst risks ignoring the growing climate of intolerance. He linked the incident to the divisive rhetoric of the Sangh Parivar, urging a united stand against such "venomous politics" that threatens even the nation’s highest judicial office.

Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy called the incident a "dark day in our country’s history," expressing solidarity with CJI Gavai and condemning the attempt to intimidate the judiciary’s highest functionary.

Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin echoed this sentiment, labeling the act a "shameful" attack on democracy’s judicial pillar, deserving the strongest condemnation. Stalin highlighted the attacker’s stated motive as evidence of a persistent "oppressive and hierarchical mindset" in society, calling for a culture of respect and maturity to protect democratic institutions.

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This brazen act within the Supreme Court premises has sparked a national debate on the state of public discourse and the safety of democratic institutions. The unified condemnation from leaders across states underscores the gravity of the incident, with calls for introspection and action to counter divisive ideologies.

While the CJI’s grace and the swift response of security personnel mitigated immediate harm, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing India’s democratic fabric. As the nation reflects on this unsettling event, the focus remains on fostering a culture that upholds the dignity and sanctity of its institutions, ensuring such acts of intolerance find no place in society.

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