Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The shoe attack on Chief Justice of India BR Gavai by advocate Rakesh Kishore, followed by its online celebration as an act of “Sanatan defiance,” reveals a dangerous distortion of faith, justice, and civic responsibility. Instead of upholding eternal dharma, the incident reflects ignorance and fanaticism disguised as religious zeal.
Misunderstanding Dharma In The Name Of Faith
Kishore hurled his shoe inside the Supreme Court, claiming divine sanction for his act after misinterpreting CJI Gavai’s remarks in a case related to a damaged Lord Vishnu idol. His justification—and the applause it drew from certain right-wing groups—demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of Sanatan Dharma. The term signifies eternal moral law and universal truth, not a license for violence. Ironically, Kishore’s action against a Buddhist Chief Justice who has consistently expressed respect for all religions violates the very principles Sanatan Dharma embodies.
The Real Meaning Of Sanatan Dharma
The phrase “Sanatan Dharma” originates in early Buddhist texts like the Subhashita Sutta, where it referred to the timeless law of truth and moral order. Its modern exclusive association with Hindu identity is a relatively recent construct. At its core, Sanatan Dharma demands truth, righteousness, non-violence (ahimsa), and respect for all beliefs. Justifying aggression in the name of faith is a betrayal of this eternal code.
Weaponising Outrage And Social Media
Kishore’s act reflects a wider pattern of faith being weaponised for manufactured outrage. Social media amplified false narratives that twisted CJI Gavai’s courtroom comments into perceived insults. Reactionary memes glorified the attack, turning it into a religious spectacle, while ignoring the legal and moral violations at its core. Although the Bar Council revoked Kishore’s membership and Prime Minister Modi condemned the act, he was celebrated online by groups driven by misinformation and grievance.
CJI Gavai’s Composed Response Sets An Example
CJI Gavai responded with dignity and restraint, refusing to lodge a complaint and asking security to return the attacker’s sandal. He reiterated his respect for all religions, exemplifying dharma in action—calm, respectful, and unwavering in duty. This stands in stark contrast to the mob’s reactionary fervour.
True Sanatan Dharma lies in understanding, moral restraint, and justice—not in weaponising faith to justify violence. Those who misuse its name insult both devotion and duty.
