Shocking Incident in Supreme Court
In an unprecedented event, a lawyer threw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud and Justice B.R. Gavai during a hearing in the Supreme Court on Monday. The lawyer, identified as Manish Kumar, shouted, “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahenge” (We will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma), before hurling the shoe. The act has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about judicial security.
What Happened During the Hearing?
The incident occurred during a hearing on a petition challenging the Kerala government’s ban on animal slaughter during Bakrid. Kumar, who was not part of the case, suddenly stood up from the visitor’s gallery, shouted slogans, and threw his shoe toward the bench. Fortunately, the shoe missed the judges and landed on the floor.
Justice Gavai and CJI’s Response
Justice Gavai, known for his calm demeanor, immediately addressed the disruption, stating, “This is unacceptable. Such behavior will not be tolerated.” CJI Chandrachud directed security personnel to take Kumar into custody. The courtroom was briefly disrupted as security swiftly apprehended him.
Outrage and Condemnation
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts and the public. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal tweeted, “Such actions undermine the dignity of the judiciary. The law must take its course.” The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) also condemned the act, with President Adish Aggarwala demanding strict legal action.
Motives Behind the Outburst
The slogan “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahenge” suggests the act was driven by perceived insults to Sanatan Dharma, a term often associated with Hinduism’s ancient traditions. While the exact context remains unclear, the incident highlights rising tensions around religious and cultural issues in India.
Security Measures Under Review
This is not the first such incident in the Supreme Court. Similar acts occurred in 2009 and 2014, prompting calls for enhanced security. The court administration has announced a review of its protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Legal Consequences for the Lawyer
Manish Kumar has been booked under IPC sections related to disrupting court proceedings and assaulting a public servant. He is currently in police custody and faces stringent legal action.
Upholding Judicial Sanctity
This incident underscores the challenges faced by the judiciary in maintaining its authority in a polarized society. While the right to protest is fundamental, it must be exercised lawfully. The Supreme Court must remain a space where justice is delivered without fear or favor.
