Tue Oct 07 18:17:54 UTC 2025: ## News Article:

**BJP Leader Praises Lawyer Who Threw Shoe at Chief Justice, Sparks Outrage**

**New Delhi, India -** A former Bengaluru Commissioner and Karnataka BJP leader, Bhaskar Rao, is facing backlash after publicly praising the lawyer who threw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during a court proceeding. The incident, already widely condemned across the political spectrum, has ignited further controversy due to Rao’s remarks.

The elderly lawyer, identified as Rakesh Kishore, launched the shoe at CJI Gavai, during a hearing related to a plea seeking the restoration of the structure of Lord Vishnu in the Javari temple in Madhya Pradesh’s Khajuraho. The shoe did not reach the bench, and Kishore was immediately apprehended by security. He has since been suspended by the Bar Council of India (BCI).

Kishore justified his actions, claiming he was offended by the CJI’s remarks during the hearing, which he perceived as mockery of Sanatan Dharma. Last month, CJI Gavai dismissed the petition plea regarding the Javari temple, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Khajuraho complex, stating it was a “publicity interest litigation.” He had suggested the petitioners pray and meditate if they were strong devotees of Lord Vishnu.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi and numerous leaders across party lines have strongly condemned the shoe-throwing incident, calling it an affront to the judiciary, Rao initially posted on X (now deleted) expressing admiration for Kishore’s “courage” to take a stand, “irrespective of consequences.”

Rao’s statement has drawn sharp criticism, including from Congress leader Mansoor Khan, who called it “shameful” for a former IPS officer to support someone who insulted the CJI. Khan wrote, “You once upheld the law; now you stand with someone who insulted the Chief Justice of India. What a fall!”

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has also issued a firm resolution condemning Kishore’s behavior, which disrupted proceedings in the CJI’s courtroom. The incident and Rao’s subsequent comments have fueled further debate about the boundaries of dissent and respect for the judiciary.

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