Times Square: Hindu Diaspora Protests CJI’s Lord Vishnu Remarks.

US Hindu group takes CJI Gavai’s Remarks on Bhagwan Vishnu Idol Restoration to Times Square. 

Upananda Brahmachari | HENB | New Delhi | Nov 12, 2025:: A group of Hindu diaspora members gathered at Times Square in New York City to express their outrage over recent remarks made by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai. During a Supreme Court hearing on September 16, CJI Gavai reportedly suggested that a petitioner seeking restoration of a historic Bhagwan Vishnu idol at Khajuraho’s Javari temple should “go and ask the deity itself to do something now.”

The protesters, mainly Hindu NRIs and Hindu Americans, carried banners and participated in a digital billboard campaign organized by Stop Hindu Genocide Forum. They demanded a formal apology from CJI Gavai, citing perceived insensitivity toward Hindu religious sentiments.

CJI Gavai is retiring on November 23 this year.

A Call for Respect and Accountability

The Hindu community took a stand against Chief Justice of India BR Gavai’s remarks during a September 16 hearing about restoring a historic Lord Vishnu idol at Khajuraho’s Javari temple. On November 8, they wrote an open letter to CJI Gavai, expressing their concerns and disappointment. This letter is available on the website (www.stophindugenocide.org), highlighting the community’s efforts to promote respect and understanding of their faith.

The protesters argued that the CJI’s remarks reflected a lack of understanding and respect for Hindu beliefs. They also targeted other Supreme Court judges, including former Chief Justices DY Chandrachud and UU Lalit, retired judge Abhay S Oka, and CJI-designate Justice Surya Kant, over past judgments and remarks being allegedly ‘anti-Hindu’, they had made so far.

The campaign highlighted a series of judicial rulings that the participants believed warranted greater consideration of cultural and religious contexts. They emphasized the need for balanced application of constitutional rights, including Article 25 on freedom of religion.

Promoting Constructive Reform

The organizers stressed that their aim was not to confront but to promote constructive reform. “This is about ensuring that India’s judiciary, a pillar of democracy, continues to serve all citizens with the utmost respect for their heritage,” said one participant.

The protest in Times Square is part of a larger effort by Hindu groups to raise awareness about issues affecting their community. Similar awareness efforts are planned in other American cities.

A Broader Conversation

The controversy surrounding CJI Gavai’s remarks has sparked a broader conversation about the role of the judiciary in respecting and protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs. As the Hindu diaspora continues to voice their concerns, it remains to be seen how the Indian judiciary will respond to these criticisms and work towards promoting greater understanding and respect for diverse cultural and religious traditions.
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