Biography Of Shoe Thrower Rakesh Kishore Supreme Court Lawyer 2025: In a shocking courtroom episode that has rattled the Indian judiciary, 71-year-old advocate Rakesh Kishore found himself at the center of controversy after attempting to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai. This incident underscores the tensions that can arise from judicial remarks on sensitive religious matters, highlighting the delicate balance between courtroom decorum and freedom of expression. Kishore, a seasoned lawyer with over a decade of practice in the Supreme Court, acted out of apparent frustration over comments made by the CJI in a public interest litigation case.
The event unfolded on October 6, 2025, leading to immediate repercussions including his suspension by the Bar Council of India. Key aspects include the swift security intervention, no formal charges being pressed, and ongoing disciplinary actions that could impact his legal career permanently.
Incident Details and Rakesh Kishore’s Background
Rakesh Kishore, enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi under number D/1647/2009, is a 71-year-old resident of Mayur Vihar in Delhi. He has been practicing as an advocate in the Supreme Court, holding a proximity card that grants access to lawyers and clerks within the apex court premises. Prior to this incident, little is publicly known about his professional history or notable cases, suggesting he maintained a low-profile career focused on routine legal matters.
The dramatic event occurred around 11:35 AM in Court No. 1 of the Supreme Court, where CJI B.R. Gavai was presiding over case mentions. Kishore approached the dais, removed his sports shoe, and tried to throw it at the CJI while shouting slogans like “Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahenge,” expressing outrage over perceived disrespect to Sanatan Dharma. Security personnel quickly restrained him, preventing any harm and escorting him out of the courtroom.
This outburst stemmed from Kishore’s dissatisfaction with remarks made by CJI Gavai on September 16 during a hearing on a plea to restore a Lord Vishnu idol at the Javari Temple in Khajuraho. The CJI had dismissed the petition as “purely publicity interest litigation” and suggested the petitioner “ask the deity to do something” or approach the Archaeological Survey of India for jurisdiction issues. Early police investigations confirmed Kishore’s unhappiness with these comments as the trigger for his actions.
Suspension Process by the Bar Council of India
Following the incident, the Bar Council of India acted promptly under the Advocates Act, 1961, suspending Kishore from practicing law nationwide with immediate effect. The BCI chairperson, Manan Kumar Mishra, issued an interim order stating that Kishore’s conduct was “inconsistent with the dignity of the court” and violated standards of professional ethics. During this period, he is barred from appearing, acting, pleading, or practicing in any court, tribunal, or authority across India.
The process requires the Bar Council of Delhi to update his status and notify all relevant courts, high courts, district courts, and bar associations within two days. Kishore must submit an affidavit within 48 hours confirming he is not handling any matters, ensuring compliance with the suspension.
Upcoming Disciplinary Proceedings and Broader Implications
Disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, with a show cause notice to be served on Kishore, giving him 15 days to explain why the suspension should not be extended or lead to further penalties. This could result in prolonged restrictions or even disbarment, depending on the outcome.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with figures like Solicitor General Tushar Mehta calling it “unfortunate and condemnable” and attributing it partly to social media misinformation. Senior advocate Indira Jaising described it as “an attack on the institution as a whole,” while Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge termed it “unprecedented, shameful, and abhorrent.” CPP Chairperson Sonia Gandhi stated, “No words are adequate to condemn the attack on the Honourable Chief Justice of India in the Supreme Court itself. It is an assault not just on him, but on our Constitution as well.”
CJI Gavai himself remained composed, remarking, “Don’t get distracted by all this. We are not distracted. These things do not affect me,” as proceedings resumed.
After questioning for about three hours, Delhi Police released Kishore without filing a case, as the Supreme Court registry chose not to press charges. His shoes are set to be returned, marking a relatively lenient immediate legal outcome amid the professional fallout.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of the need for restraint in judicial settings, even amid passionate disagreements. Readers interested in updates should monitor official announcements from the Bar Council of India or the Supreme Court website for developments in the disciplinary process.
Who is Rakesh Kishore?
Rakesh Kishore is a 71-year-old Supreme Court advocate suspended by the Bar Council of India after attempting to throw a shoe at CJI B.R. Gavai on October 6, 2025, over remarks on a Lord Vishnu idol restoration plea
