“If CJI Were Of Some Other Caste.." SC Chaos | Advocate Throws Shoe At CJI Gavai Sparks Outrage

In a discussion hosted by Barkha Dutt, legal experts and political voices shared their perspectives. Senior Advocate Sanjay Hegde, who was present in court, praised the Chief Justice’s calmness, saying his decision to carry on with proceedings reflected dignity and restraint. Hegde described the act as politically motivated and fueled by social media propaganda.

Lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai disagreed, saying it was a personal act driven by the lawyer’s hurt religious emotions, not political intent. He emphasized that violence against judges sets a dangerous precedent and urged accountability. Dehadrai also highlighted Justice Gavai’s inspiring rise from a marginalized background to the nation’s highest judicial post.

Political commentator Tehseen Poonawalla and BJP spokesperson Ashwini Shahi differed on whether the act carried caste undertones. While Shahi dismissed that argument, Poonawalla argued it exposed deep-rooted social prejudice against a Dalit Chief Justice. Both, however, condemned the attack and agreed that legal action must follow.

Concluding the discussion, Barkha Dutt said the focus should return to protecting the dignity of India’s institutions rather than fueling caste or religious divides. “The longer we debate this, the deeper we sink into the cesspool of hate,” she warned.