The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has expressed strong condemnation and “profound shock and outrage” over the alleged misconduct of an advocate in the courtroom of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice B.R. Gavai. The incident occurred on Monday, October 6, 2025, during proceedings before the CJI, and has drawn widespread criticism within the legal fraternity.
In a unanimously adopted resolution (SCBA/EC-2025-26), the association termed the conduct of the advocate as “reprehensible, unbecoming of an officer of the court, and striking at the very foundation of mutual respect between the Bench and the Bar.”
‘Intemperate Behaviour’ an Affront to Judiciary: SCBA
The SCBA stated that the incident, reportedly linked to a backlash over the Chief Justice’s observations in the Khajuraho Vishnu Idol Restoration case, represented a gross violation of decorum. Justice Gavai had recently made remarks emphasizing respect for all religions and harmony amidst communal tensions — remarks which, according to the SCBA, were “distorted on social media.”
Calling the act “an unprovoked and contemptuous assault on judicial independence,” the Bar body warned that such incidents erode public confidence in the judicial system. “The SCBA condemns the claim by the advocate as baseless, misconceived, and motivated by ill intent,” the resolution said.
Bar and Bench are Indispensable Pillars
Reaffirming solidarity with the Chief Justice and other judges of the Supreme Court, the SCBA reminded members that the Bar and Bench are “two indispensable pillars of the justice delivery system” bound by mutual respect and a shared constitutional responsibility.
The association further disclosed that the advocate involved is a temporary member of the SCBA and that disciplinary action is under consideration.
Call for Legal Fraternity to Uphold Decorum
In a strong message to lawyers across the country, the SCBA urged members of the legal fraternity to refrain from any conduct that could undermine or intimidate the judiciary. “To insult or intimidate a sitting judge is not only criminal in nature but also a betrayal of solemn professional duty,” it said, urging lawyers to “uphold the majesty of law and decorum of the court.”
Media’s Role Under Scrutiny
The SCBA also criticized certain media outlets for exacerbating the controversy through “irresponsible, sensationalized reporting” and “deliberate distortion of judicial remarks.” It accused some sections of the press of amplifying misrepresentation and portraying the Chief Justice’s observations as disrespectful to religious sentiments, which the association said “recklessly fueled public outrage.”
“The media’s conduct has dangerously blurred the line between legitimate criticism and incitement, creating vigilante reactions and eroding respect for judicial authority,” the resolution stated.
Freedom of Expression Not a License for Contempt
Emphasizing that freedom of speech must coexist with constitutional responsibility, the SCBA warned against misuse of expression that undermines public faith in judicial institutions. “Freedom of speech and expression cannot serve as a license to malign constitutional institutions or erode the public’s faith in the justice system,” it said.
Commitment to Judicial Independence
Concluding the resolution, SCBA’s Honorary Secretary Pragya Baghel affirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to the principles of “secularism, fraternity, and the rule of law.” The body called upon all advocates to uphold ethical conduct and work collectively to safeguard the dignity and independence of the judiciary.
Resolution No. SCBA/EC-2025-26,
Date: October 6, 2025
