CJI BR Gavai Faces Heat from Hindu Community Over Lord Vishnu Remarks, Apology Demanded.

CJI BR Gavai’s ‘Respect All Religions’ Claim Falls Flat as Hindus Demand Unconditional Apology Over Lord Vishnu Remarks.

Upendra Bharti | HENB | New Delhi | Sept 18, 2025:: Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai has found himself embroiled in controversy after his remarks on a plea seeking the restoration of a Lord Vishnu idol in Khajuraho sparked outrage among the Hindu community. While dismissing the plea, CJI Gavai suggested that the petitioner pray and meditate, and even jokingly advised changing his deity from Lord Vishnu to Lord Shiva.

The Controversy

The controversy began when a bench headed by CJI Gavai refused to entertain a plea filed by Rakesh Dalal, seeking directions to reconstruct and reinstall a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu at the Javari Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. The idol was ransacked by the Islamic invaders as per historical records. The CJI termed the plea a “publicity interest litigation” and advised the petitioner to approach the deity himself.

Hindu Community’s Reaction

The Hindu community has strongly reacted to CJI Gavai’s remarks, demanding an unconditional apology for hurting their sentiments. Upananda Brahmachari, a Hindu interlocutor, questioned CJI Gavai’s claim of respecting all religions, given his comments on Lord Vishnu. Brahmachari emphasized that the CJI’s conscience seemed absent when he made the remarks, and now he must tender an unconditional apology to the Hindus instead of a casual statement.

March to the Supreme Court

A group called Sanatan Katha Vachak Samanvay Parishad has called for a march to the Supreme Court on October 2, protesting the perceived disrespect to Lord Vishnu. The group’s slogan, “Hindus will not tolerate any insult to Lord Vishnu! Let’s march to the Supreme Court on Oct 2nd!”, reflects the community’s determination to stand up for their beliefs.

Letter to CJI and President of India

However, Vineet Jindal, a prominent advocate, has written a letter to Justice B.R. Gavai, demanding that he immediately retract his objectionable statements against Lord Vishnu and the Hindu faith. A copy of this letter has also been sent to the Hon’ble President of India. In his letter, Jindal stated that phrases such as “Go and tell the god yourself to do something” and “Then go and pray” are extremely inappropriate, insensitive, and disrespectful to the faith of countless devotees.

CJI’s Attempt to Downplay the Controversy

CJI Gavai attempted to mitigate the public wrath by stating that his remarks were being misportrayed on social media. He emphasized his respect for all religions, but this response has not appeased the Hindu community.

Social Media’s Role

While interacting with this reporter, Brahmachari also condemned the tendency of some senior advocates to malign the role of social media, which plays a pivotal role in exposing the Indian polity and judiciary’s actions against Hindus. He requested that they remain restrained with social media.

The controversy highlights the delicate balance between the judiciary and religious sentiments. As the Hindu community continues to demand an apology, it remains to be seen how CJI Gavai and the judiciary respond to the growing criticism.
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__Agency  inputs.