BCI Bars Rakesh Kishore From Practicing Law After Attempted Assault On CJI

Advocate Rakesh Kishore, who attempted to attack Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai inside the Supreme Court by hurling a shoe, has been expelled from relevant Bar Associations and suspended from practicing law across India. The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) terminated Kishore's temporary membership, while the Bar Council of India (BCI) issued an immediate suspension order, barring him from appearing, pleading, or practicing in any court, tribunal, or authority nationwide.

Incident Details and Disciplinary Action

The attack took place on October 6, 2025, during a routine Supreme Court hearing, when Kishore tried to throw his sports shoe at CJI Gavai but was promptly restrained by security personnel.

The BCI described his actions as "inconsistent with the dignity of the court" and stated that he violated professional ethics under the Advocates Act, 1961. A show-cause notice has been issued to Kishore, asking him to justify why the suspension should not be made permanent, and disciplinary proceedings are underway.

The SCBA and other legal bodies unanimously condemned the attack, calling it "reprehensible and utterly unbecoming of an officer of the court."

Kishore has also been named in an FIR registered by Bengaluru police under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita relating to assault and provocation of breach of peace, following widespread national outrage and protests by legal communities.

Wider Context and Reactions

Kishore showed no remorse, claiming emotional distress and citing judicial remarks on Hindu religious issues as the reason for his protest.

Political leaders and bar associations across India condemned the incident and expressed solidarity with CJI Gavai.

Advocate Rakesh Kishore now faces complete expulsion from bar associations, immediate suspension, and criminal proceedings in connection with his attempted attack inside the Supreme Court.