Overview

• The Supreme Court declined a PIL by Rakesh Dalal seeking reconstruction of a beheaded Vishnu idol at Khajuraho’s Javari Temple.
• During the hearing, Chief Justice B.R. Gavai told the litigant to “go and pray now” and to “ask the deity himself,” comments later criticized online.
• Gavai subsequently stated that the remarks were portrayed inaccurately and affirmed that he respects all religions.
• The bench indicated that decisions on restoration at the UNESCO-listed complex rest with the Archaeological Survey of India, limiting judicial intervention.
• Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and senior advocate Kapil Sibal warned that online reactions to courtroom exchanges are often disproportionate.