Overview

• In open court on September 18, Chief Justice B.R. Gavai said his earlier comments were misportrayed on social media and affirmed respect for all faiths.
• A bench led by the CJI on September 16 refused to entertain a plea to reconstruct and reinstall a seven-foot Vishnu idol at Khajuraho, calling it “publicity interest litigation.”
• The bench emphasized that any alteration at the UNESCO-listed site falls under the Archaeological Survey of India, and the CJI’s oral remarks included advising the petitioner to pray.
• Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and senior advocate Kapil Sibal warned about disproportionate social media reactions, while Justice K. Vinod Chandran noted the risks of online misinterpretation.
• VHP chief Alok Kumar and religious leaders condemned the remarks, and advocates including Vineet Jindal sought a retraction, but there is no indication the court’s dismissal will be revisited.