New Delhi, October 6, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Delhi Police released 71-year-old advocate Rakesh Kishore just three hours after his arrest for allegedly hurling a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai during Supreme Court proceedings on Monday. The release came after the Supreme Court's Registrar General declined to press charges, citing the non-serious nature of the incident. Kishore, a resident of Mayur Vihar and a registered member of the Supreme Court Bar Association, was detained around 11:35 am in Court No. 1, where he shouted slogans like "Sanatan ka apman nahi sahenge" (We will not tolerate insult to Sanatan Dharma) while attempting to throw his sports shoes toward the CJI.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Kishore's actions stemmed from his dissatisfaction with CJI Gavai's remarks during a September 16 hearing on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the restoration of a dilapidated 7-foot-tall Lord Vishnu idol at the Javari Temple in Madhya Pradesh's Khajuraho Temple complex—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bench, comprising CJI Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran, dismissed the plea, terming it "publicity interest litigation" and falling under the Archaeological Survey of India's (ASI) jurisdiction. CJI Gavai had remarked, "If you are a strong devotee of Lord Vishnu, then you pray and do some meditation," which drew widespread criticism for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments and sparked calls for impeachment on social media.Also Read: Karnataka Government Transfers KSRTC MD; Sivakumar KB Given Additional Charge of BMTC MD

Despite the disruption, CJI Gavai remained composed, urging lawyers to continue arguments and stating, "Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me." He later clarified his respect for all religions, emphasizing the context of ASI's authority over temple upkeep. Senior advocate Indira Jaising called for a probe into the incident, highlighting its implications for court dignity.Safari Flip 32L Casual Printed Backpack, 2 Compartments, Bottle Holder, Front Pocket, School Bag for Boys and Girls, College Bag, Office Bag, Travel Bag for Men and Women

The event has reignited debate over the September remarks, with advocates like Satyam Singh Rajput writing open letters urging CJI Gavai to withdraw them. Police are coordinating with the Supreme Court for further inquiry, but no formal charges have been filed as of now.

CJI's Response

Remained unfazed; said "These things do not affect me" and continued proceedings.

Background on Remarks

CJI: "Go pray to Lord Vishnu"; dismissed plea under ASI jurisdiction; faced backlash for insensitivity.

Arrest & Release: Detained immediately by security; released after 3 hours as SC Registrar General refused to press charges.