New Delhi, September 18 — Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai has publicly reaffirmed his respect for all religions following widespread criticism on social media over remarks made during a hearing related to the reconstruction of a damaged idol at the Javari Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.
The controversy stems from a Supreme Court bench, led by CJI Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran, dismissing a plea filed by petitioner Rakesh Dalal seeking the reconstruction and consecration of a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu at the UNESCO World Heritage site. Terming the petition as “publicity interest litigation,” the CJI had remarked, “Go and ask the deity himself to do something. If you are saying that you are a strong devotee of Lord Vishnu, then you pray and do some meditation.” He further added, “In the meantime, if you are not averse to Shaivism, you can go and worship there… there is a very big linga of Shiva, one of the biggest in Khajuraho”.
These comments triggered a wave of online criticism, with some users accusing the CJI of insensitivity and religious bias. In response, CJI Gavai clarified his position during court proceedings, stating, “Someone told me the other day that the comments I made have been portrayed in social media… I respect all religions”.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta defended the CJI, emphasizing his long-standing commitment to secular values and equal reverence for all faiths. “I have known the CJI for the last 10 years. He visits all religious places with equal respect and would never insult any deity,” Mehta said. He also criticized the disproportionate reaction on social media, calling it a distortion of facts.
Justice Chandran echoed concerns about the impact of uninformed social media commentary, referring to it as “anti-social media.” Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Sanjay Nul also weighed in, expressing dismay over the misrepresentation of judicial remarks and the challenges of navigating public discourse in the digital age.
The incident has reignited discussions around judicial accountability, religious sensitivity, and the role of social media in shaping public perception. Despite the backlash, the Supreme Court has stood by its decision to dismiss the plea, reiterating the importance of maintaining judicial integrity and secularism in public life.
