New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the attack on Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice B.R. Gavai, which occurred earlier today within the Supreme Court premises. The Prime Minister personally spoke with Justice Gavai, expressing his concern and appreciation for the composure displayed by the Chief Justice in the face of the assault.
The incident took place during court proceedings when an advocate attempted to throw an object, reported by some sources as a shoe, at the Chief Justice. Security personnel immediately intervened, preventing the object from reaching Justice Gavai and escorting the individual out of the courtroom.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi conveyed the sentiment of the nation, saying, "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". He further emphasized Justice Gavai's commitment to justice and the Constitution, stating, "I appreciated the calm displayed by Justice Gavai in the face of such a situation. It highlights his commitment to values of justice and strengthening the spirit of our Constitution".
Eyewitness accounts indicate that as the advocate was being apprehended, he shouted, "Sanatan Dharam ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan" ("India will not tolerate disrespect towards Sanatan Dharma"). Following the incident, the individual was detained by Delhi police but later released after the Supreme Court Registrar declined to press criminal charges. A white paper note was reportedly recovered from his possession containing a message to "every sanatani".
The Supreme Court Bar Association has reportedly suspended the lawyer's license to practice in response to the incident.
The attack has drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum. Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also condemned the attack, calling it an assault on the dignity of the judiciary and the spirit of the Constitution. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, echoed this sentiment, calling for the nation to stand in solidarity with CJI Gavai.
The incident raises concerns about the security of judges and the sanctity of the judicial process. The Prime Minister's swift response underscores the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of the judiciary. Further investigations are likely to be conducted to determine the motivations behind the attack and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
