Dr. K.A. Paul Calls on Amit Shah to Enforce ‘Zero Tolerance’ After Shoe Attack on CJI Gavai
New Delhi
Global Peace Initiative founder Dr. K.A. Paul has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for strict action against advocate Rakesh Kishore (71), who allegedly tried to throw a shoe at Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai during Supreme Court proceedings on October 6.
Dr. Paul described the incident as a “shocking and contemptuous act that undermines the dignity of the judiciary,” expressing concern that the accused was released within hours with his belongings returned, calling it a “worrying signal of impunity.”
He urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure the arrest, prosecution, and permanent disbarment of the accused under the relevant provisions of the BNS and Contempt of Courts Act, while also reinforcing security at court premises and for judges.
“Failing to respond strongly will embolden extremists and radicals to threaten judicial officers and court staff,” Dr. Paul warned.
Citing the 2008 incident where an Iraqi journalist was jailed for throwing a shoe at then–US President George W. Bush, Dr. Paul emphasized that India must take firm and impartial action to maintain the sanctity of its judiciary.
He further noted that weak enforcement could harm India’s global image and called on Home Minister Amit Shah to demonstrate zero tolerance toward any assault or intimidation of judicial personnel.