Mumbai: In a strong show of solidarity, lawyers from the All India Lawyers Union (AILU) Mumbai Committee and the Andheri Bar Association staged a vehement protest outside the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court in Andheri, condemning the attack on Supreme Court Chief Justice B.R. Gavai. Over 30 lawyers participated in the demonstration, expressing outrage over the incident that undermined the sanctity of the judiciary.

On Monday, advocate Rakesh Kishor attempted to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice Gavai during a Supreme Court hearing concerning a petition for the restoration of a Vishnu idol in Khajuraho. Citing the Chief Justice’s remarks during the hearing, Kishor shouted, “Insult to Sanatan Dharma will not be tolerated,” before making the attempt. The attack was thwarted, and Chief Justice Gavai, maintaining composure, stated, “Such incidents do not affect me,” and continued the hearing. In response, the Bar Council of India (BCI) promptly suspended Rakesh Kishor’s advocate license and initiated disciplinary proceedings.

During the protest outside Andheri Court, AILU and local lawyers unitedly condemned the incident, emphasizing that an attack on the judiciary constitutes a violation of constitutional boundaries. Advocate Chandrakant S. Bozgar urged all lawyers to collectively oppose such acts. Advocate Balwant Patil praised Chief Justice Gavai’s calm response and stressed the need to prevent such incidents. Advocate Subhash Gaikwad welcomed the BCI’s decision and demanded stringent legal action. Advocate Nanda Singh labeled the incident a symbol of social hatred and raised concerns about the Supreme Court’s security. Advocate P.M. Choudhary highlighted the unity of the lawyers’ association, while Advocate Sultan Sheikh called for immediate measures to ensure judges’ safety. Advocate Yadav suggested increasing awareness to prevent such incidents in the future.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation across the country. In Delhi, AILU held protests outside the Supreme Court, with advocate Sunil Kumar demanding an FIR and action for contempt of court. The CPI(M) and AILU issued separate statements expressing their outrage.

This incident has brought the issue of judicial security to the forefront, with the AILU Mumbai Committee appealing to the legal fraternity to unite in maintaining social harmony. Expressing support for Chief Justice Gavai, the lawyers resolved to take a firm stand against such acts.