Chief Justice of India B. R. Gavai addressed the recent controversy surrounding his remarks made during proceedings in a petition concerning the damaged idol of Lord Vishnu at the UNESCO World Heritage Khajuraho temple complex.
During the hearing on 16 September 2025 before CJI B. R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran, CJI Gavai dismissed the petition seeking reconstruction and reinstallation of the Lord Vishnu idol, terming the plea as publicity-oriented. At that time, he urged the petitioner to “go and ask Lord Vishnu” about the matter, which triggered widespread social media criticism.
In a subsequent clarification, the CJI emphasized his respect for all religions and reaffirmed his commitment to secularism and religious harmony in India. He stated, “I respect all religions,” and explained that social media reactions to judicial comments are often disproportionate.
The Court observed that the original plea lacked substantive legal merit. The Supreme Court’s order, dismissing the Public Interest Litigation seeking to replace the idol at the Khajuraho temple’s Javari shrine, confirmed that the judicial decision was based on the factual matrix and legal principles guiding temple administration.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing before the bench today, seconded the CJI by emphasizing the increasing challenges posed by social media and noted the need for measured responses to judicial actions.