SCAORA Condemns Lawyer's Attempt To Throw Shoe At CJI BR Gavai; Seeks Contempt Action

The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCOARA) has unequivocally condemned the act of an advocate, who today morning reportedly tried to throw an object at Chief Justice of India BR Gavai before being escorted out by the security. 

The SCOARA said that the conduct is "unbecoming" of a member of the Bar and strikes at the very foundation of mutual respect that sustains the relationship between the Bench and the Bar. 

" This behavior is antithetical to the dignity of the legal profession and contrary to the constitutional values of decorum, discipline, and institutional integrity. Any attempt to malign or a personalised act/gesture aimed against a sitting judge of the Hon'ble Supreme Court constitutes a direct assault on the independence of the judiciary and undermines public faith in the justice delivery system. SCOARA unequivocally condemns this cowardly and disrespectful act and stands in complete solidarity with the Hon'ble Chief Justice of India and the entire judiciary in upholding the majesty, independence, and impartiality of the Supreme Court of India," as stated in the statement issued by SCOARA Secretary Nikhil Jain.

It has been suggested that the Court may initiate suo motu contempt against such an act, as it is a calculated move to scandalise the authority of the office of the CJI.

It is averred: "SCOARA further expresses its considered view that the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India may be pleased to take suo motu cognizance of the said conduct and initiate appropriate proceedings for contempt of court, as the act/gesture is a calculated move to scandalise the authority of the Hon'ble Supreme Court and lower its dignity in the eyes of the public. Such a course would serve as a necessary reminder that freedom of speech, while sacrosanct, carries with it a duty of restraint, particularly for members of the legal profession who are officers of the Court." 

The incident happened today morning during the mentioning rounds, when the individual attempted to hurl the object at the CJI.

According to lawyers present, the individual shouted, “Sanatan Dharam ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan” (“India will not tolerate disrespect towards Sanatan Dharma”) while being removed from the courtroom.