The Bar Council of India (BCI) has suspended Rakesh Kishore, a 71-year-old lawyer, from practicing law after he reportedly threw a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai within the Supreme Court. This event took place on Monday morning, leading the BCI to take prompt action. As per the order signed by BCI chairman Manan Kumar Mishra, initial evidence suggests that Kishore took off his sports shoes and attempted to throw them at the CJI during ongoing court proceedings. The BCI considered this behavior to be inconsistent with the court’s rules and dignity.
Having been registered with the Bar Council of Delhi since 2009, Kishore has been prohibited from appearing in, pleading to, or practicing in any court, tribunal, or authority throughout India. A show-cause notice has been issued against him, and disciplinary proceedings will be initiated. Born on September 10, 1954, Kishore has engaged in several legal cases, which include a contempt petition lodged in 2021 and a writ petition in the Delhi High Court.
“In view of the foregoing, you, i.e. Advocate Rakesh Kishore, is suspended from practice with immediate effect,” it said
Residents of Kishore’s community, Riverview Apartments in Mayur Vihar Phase 1, assert that he assumed the presidency six years ago and that no subsequent elections have been conducted. They have submitted multiple complaints against him, including an allegation of assaulting a senior citizen in 2021. Nevertheless, the Delhi Police noted that Kishore has no prior criminal record. Following questioning, the police released him after the apex court’s registrar general declined to file charges.
The BCI’s decision follows a comprehensive review of the incident, and Kishore will have the chance to justify his actions. The suspension underscores the necessity of preserving the court’s dignity and maintaining the integrity of the legal profession. With the disciplinary proceedings underway, Kishore’s ability to practice law is now in jeopardy. This incident has ignited a discussion regarding lawyers’ conduct in court and the repercussions of their behavior.
