The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has expelled Rakesh Kishore, the 71-year-old lawyer who threw a shoe at Chief Justice of India BR Gavai. Along with expelling him, the Bar Association has banned his entry card, barring him from entering the Supreme Court premises. The decision was taken with immediate effect.

The incident happened on Monday in the courtroom. Kishore was quickly detained by police and escorted out. While being taken away, he shouted, “India will not tolerate the insult of Sanatan Dharma.” In its suspension notice, the SCBA called Kishore’s act “reprehensible, disorderly, and intemperate” and said it was completely inappropriate for a lawyer.

The notice stated that his actions breached professional ethics, court decorum, and the dignity of the Supreme Court. The Bar also described Kishore’s attempted attack as a direct assault on judicial independence and the sanctity of courtroom proceedings. Earlier, the Bar Council of India had suspended Kishore’s license, calling the incident “a blot on the legal fraternity.”

The attack came almost a month after CJI Gavai faced criticism over his controversial remark during a hearing related to the restoration of a damaged Vishnu idol in Madhya Pradesh. In the court, Gavai reportedly said, “Go and ask the deity itself,” which many considered mocking the religious plea.

Kishore told the media that he was hurt by the Chief Justice’s comment. He said he had no regrets and explained that he was not drunk but reacted to the remarks out of concern for Sanatan Dharma. He said, “Don’t provide relief to the petitioner, but don’t mock him either. I was hurt.”

Despite the attack, CJI Gavai remained calm and continued with the proceedings. He asked the court staff and security personnel to ignore Kishore and not let the incident distract them. “Don’t get distracted by all this. These things do not affect me. Continue with the hearing,” the Chief Justice reportedly said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke to CJI Gavai after the incident, condemning the attack. He called the act “reprehensible” and said it angered every Indian.

This incident has sparked wide discussion about courtroom discipline, the independence of the judiciary, and respect for legal proceedings in India. Kishore’s actions and the responses from the SCBA, Bar Council of India, and Prime Minister highlight the seriousness with which the legal system treats attacks on its officers.