BCI Suspends Lawyer After Shoe Incident in Supreme Court
The Bar Council of India (BCI) has suspended advocate Rakesh Kishore with immediate effect following an incident in which he allegedly attempted to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice of India B. R. Gavai during proceedings in the Supreme Court.
What Happened
During a hearing in Court No. 1, Kishore reportedly removed one of his sports shoes and tried to throw it toward the bench. Security personnel intervened and detained him on the spot. The court was temporarily disrupted by the event.
BCI’s Response
Citing professional conduct rules, the BCI labeled the advocate’s act as “inconsistent with the dignity” expected of legal professionals. The suspension bars him from appearing, acting, pleading, or practicing in any court, tribunal, or authority across India during this period. The BCI also mandated that all identity cards and court access permissions held by him be rendered inoperative.
A show cause notice will be issued, and Kishore has 15 days to respond. Disciplinary proceedings against him will follow. The Bar Council of Delhi has been directed to update his status and notify courts and bar associations across jurisdictions.
Reactions and Legal Implications
Legal bodies and senior advocates across the country condemned the act as blatant contempt of court. Some called for criminal contempt proceedings in addition to the BCI’s disciplinary action. The chief justice himself stated that such disruptions would not distract the court from its duties.
Observers say the case raises questions about courtroom security protocols and the boundaries of dissent within the legal profession. The matter will be closely watched for how disciplinary and possibly criminal frameworks respond to such conduct.
