By News Karnataka
Copyright newskarnataka
Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai on Thursday clarified that he respects all religions, following a controversy over his remarks in a case concerning a Lord Vishnu idol at Khajuraho.
“Someone told me the other day that the comments I made have been portrayed in social media in a certain manner… I respect all religions,” CJI Gavai said.
Background of the case
Earlier this week, a bench led by CJI Gavai dismissed a plea seeking directions to reconstruct and reinstall a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu at the Javari Temple, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Khajuraho temple complex in Madhya Pradesh.
Calling it “publicity interest litigation,” the CJI had remarked: “Go and ask the deity himself to do something. If you are a strong devotee of Lord Vishnu, then you pray and do some meditation.”
He also said that the issue was under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and suggested that the petitioner could worship at the nearby Shiva Temple. “In the meantime, if you are not averse to Shaivism, you can go and worship there. There is a very big linga of Shiva, one of the biggest in Khajuraho,” the CJI had said.
Social media backlash
The remarks sparked sharp reactions on social media, with some Hindu organisations accusing the CJI of mocking religious beliefs. Several posts called for his impeachment, claiming the comments hurt religious sentiments.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) chief Alok Kumar urged restraint in courtroom speech. “Judges, like all public figures, should be mindful that their words are not misinterpreted or seen as disrespectful,” he said.
Several advocates also wrote to the CJI, urging him to withdraw his remarks. One letter stated, “I hope the Supreme Court and the President will treat this matter with seriousness and ensure that the dignity of every faith is preserved.”
Clarification from CJI
Amid the growing row, CJI Gavai issued a clarification on Thursday, stressing that his comments had been misrepresented online. “I respect all religions,” he reiterated, underlining that the court’s ruling was purely a matter of jurisdiction and procedure.
Why it matters
The episode highlights how judicial remarks, even when offhand, can spark wide-ranging debate when intertwined with matters of faith. With calls for accountability and restraint, the controversy underscores the sensitivities around religion in India’s public discourse.
