In a strongly worded statement, the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCOARA) on Monday (October 6) unequivocally condemned the conduct of an advocate who reportedly attempted to throw an object at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during the morning session of the Supreme Court. The individual was immediately restrained and escorted out of the courtroom by security personnel.

SCOARA: Act “Unbecoming of a Member of the Bar”

Expressing deep disapproval, SCOARA described the incident as “unbecoming of a member of the Bar”, emphasizing that such behavior strikes at the very core of the relationship between the Bench and the Bar, which is founded on “mutual respect, discipline, and decorum.”

In its official statement, signed by SCOARA Secretary Nikhil Jain, the association underscored that the advocate’s actions were “antithetical to the dignity of the legal profession” and contrary to the “constitutional values of decorum, discipline, and institutional integrity” that every lawyer is duty-bound to uphold.

“Any attempt to malign or a personalised act/gesture aimed against a sitting judge of the Hon’ble Supreme Court constitutes a direct assault on the independence of the judiciary and undermines public faith in the justice delivery system,”
the statement read.

“SCOARA unequivocally condemns this cowardly and disrespectful act and stands in complete solidarity with the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India and the entire judiciary in upholding the majesty, independence, and impartiality of the Supreme Court of India,”
it further stated.

Possible Suo Motu Contempt Action

The incident, which shocked members of the legal fraternity, has reportedly led to discussions that the Supreme Court may consider initiating suo motu contempt proceedings against the individual. According to legal sources, the act may amount to a deliberate attempt to “scandalise the authority of the Court” and lower the dignity of the Chief Justice’s office in the eyes of the public.

In its statement, SCOARA echoed this sentiment, urging the Court to take appropriate action to reaffirm judicial authority and maintain institutional sanctity.

“SCOARA further expresses its considered view that the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India may be pleased to take suo motu cognizance of the said conduct and initiate appropriate proceedings for contempt of court, as the act/gesture is a calculated move to scandalise the authority of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and lower its dignity in the eyes of the public,”
the statement averred.

The association also reminded members of the legal fraternity that freedom of speech, while sacrosanct, comes with an equally important duty of restraint, particularly for advocates who are “officers of the Court.”

“Such a course would serve as a necessary reminder that freedom of speech, while sacrosanct, carries with it a duty of restraint, particularly for members of the legal profession who are officers of the Court,”
the statement concluded.

Broader Context: Upholding Judicial Dignity

The incident has sparked widespread concern within the legal community, with senior advocates and bar associations across the country emphasizing the need for maintaining courtroom decorum and respect for judicial authority.
Legal experts note that any physical or verbal affront to a judge within the courtroom not only constitutes a potential case of criminal contempt but also erodes public trust in the judiciary — a cornerstone of India’s constitutional democracy.

While no official contempt proceedings have yet been initiated, observers believe the matter could set an important precedent on how the judiciary deals with instances of physical disruption and attempts to intimidate or disrespect judges during court proceedings.