‘I respect all religions’: CJI after idol remarks spark row

By Chanshimla Varah | Sep 18, 2025, 04:22 PM

**Chief Justice of India BR Gavai Clarifies Respect for All Religions Amid Khajuraho Idol Case Controversy**

Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai has sought to clarify his stance amid growing controversy over his remarks in the Khajuraho idol case, emphasizing that he respects all religions.

The case centers around a plea to restore a seven-foot, beheaded ancient Lord Vishnu idol located at the Javari temple, which is part of Madhya Pradesh’s UNESCO-listed Khajuraho group of monuments. On September 16, CJI Gavai had declined to intervene in the matter, stating that it fell under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

### Misinterpretation of Comments

Addressing the backlash, CJI Gavai said, “My comments were misinterpreted on social media. I respect all religions. This happened on social media.”

Adding to the conversation, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta remarked on the tendency for social media to amplify reactions disproportionately. He said, “We have seen this. There is Newton’s law which says every action has an equal reaction, but now every action has a disproportionate social media reaction.”

### Petition Details: Plea to Restore Ancient Beheaded Vishnu Idol

The petition was filed by Rakesh Dalal, who claimed that the idol was mutilated during Mughal invasions and remained unrepaired due to colonial neglect and post-independence inaction. He argued that the refusal to restore the idol infringed upon devotees’ fundamental right to worship.

However, CJI Gavai refused to intervene, stating, “This is purely publicity interest litigation. 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.”

### Archaeological Considerations

CJI Gavai highlighted the archaeological nature of the site, emphasizing the role of the ASI in such matters. “It’s an archaeological find. Whether the ASI would permit such a restoration or not involves various issues,” he said.

He also noted the presence of other places of worship in Khajuraho, suggesting, “In the meantime, if you are not averse to Shaivism, go and worship there. There is a very big linga of Shiva, one of the biggest in Khajuraho.”

### Controversy and Reactions

CJI Gavai’s comment urging the petitioner to pray to the deity instead of seeking judicial intervention sparked outrage, with some viewing it as offensive to Hindu sentiments.

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) accused the CJI of “mocking” Hindu beliefs, and hashtags demanding his impeachment trended on social media. However, VHP chief Alok Kumar later called for caution, especially within courtroom settings, during a public speech.

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This development highlights the sensitive nature of religious and cultural heritage disputes and the challenges of addressing them within the legal framework while respecting public sentiment.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/i-respect-all-religions-cji-on-vishnu-idol-remarks-row/story

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