The plea comes even though the CJI had graciously pardoned the act during the hearing. In his submission, Dr. Paul also urged the Government of India to introduce a new law with stricter provisions to safeguard the judiciary from similar incidents in the future.
Petition Raises Questions on Equality and Judicial Dignity
Dr. Paul’s petition, titled “Justice Now or Never,” was listed before a bench led by Justice Surya Kant (Item No. 42) on Monday. The plea highlights concerns over equality before law, judicial accountability, and the sanctity of constitutional institutions.
Speaking to the media at the Supreme Court premises, Dr. Paul said his petition “is not about one individual, but about protecting the dignity of the judiciary as a pillar of democracy.”
“Throwing a shoe at the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India in open court is not just an insult—it is an attack on the Constitution itself,” Dr. Paul asserted.
Condemns Growing Disrespect Toward Judiciary
Dr. Paul criticized what he described as the “normalization of disrespect” towards the judiciary. He pointed out that the advocate involved in the incident had “openly glorified” his act in media interviews, which he said was deeply concerning.
“If such conduct is forgiven or celebrated, it will embolden others to defy court authority,” he warned. “The world is watching how India, the largest democracy, defends the dignity of its judicial system.”
Citing a recent incident at the Jharkhand High Court, where an advocate allegedly threatened a sitting judge, Dr. Paul described it as “a dangerous trend that must be stopped before it undermines public confidence in the judiciary.”
Meets Top Legal Officials, Urges Preventive Measures
Dr. Paul expressed gratitude to Justice Surya Kant’s bench for acknowledging his concerns and allowing him to submit preventive recommendations to the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).
He added that he had already discussed the issue with SCBA President Vikas Singh and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, emphasizing the need for clear protocols and stronger deterrents to protect judicial officers.
“Justice must not be selective,” Dr. Paul said. “There cannot be one law for advocates or officials and another for ordinary citizens. If the Constitution cannot protect the judiciary, it cannot protect the nation.”
Dr. Paul’s petition has since drawn national and international attention, with legal scholars and global observers viewing it as a test of India’s commitment to equality before law and respect for its judicial institutions.
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