The Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai has clarified his remarks regarding the idol of Lord Vishnu in Khajuraho. On Thursday, in court, he stated that his statement on the Vishnu idol matter is being misrepresented on social media.
New Delhi: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai has issued a clarification regarding his statement on the reconstruction and reinstallation of the idol of Lord Vishnu in Khajuraho. The CJI clarified on Thursday that his statement has been misrepresented on social media. He said, "I respect all religions. The comments made by me have been presented on social media in a particular way."
Senior Lawyers Support CJI
In this matter, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated that he has known the CJI for the past 10 years. He pointed out that reactions on social media are often highly disproportionate and exaggerated, which do not align with reality. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal also commented on this, saying that social media is increasing problems in everyday life.
He described it as an "uncontrolled horse" that is difficult to tame. To this, the CJI remarked that a similar situation occurred in Nepal, and the circumstances there were comparable.
CJI's Controversial Statement
B.R. Gavai's statement came when the bench headed by him dismissed a petition seeking the reconstruction of a seven-foot-tall idol of Lord Vishnu at the Javari Temple within the Khajuraho temple complex in Madhya Pradesh. The CJI said, "This is entirely a publicity interest litigation. Go and ask God himself to do something. If you are a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, then pray and meditate."
He also clarified that the matter falls entirely within the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Furthermore, he suggested that the petitioners could, in the meantime, visit the Shiva temple and offer prayers, as there is a very large lingam there, which is one of the largest in Khajuraho.
Controversy on Social Media
The alleged statement by CJI B.R. Gavai sparked b reactions on social media. Some Hindu organizations claimed that the judge mocked their religious sentiments. Many users also demanded the impeachment of the Chief Justice. Viral social media posts stated that the CJI's remarks hurt religious sentiments. However, the CJI clarified that his statement was not against any particular religion and his objective was solely to ensure compliance with legal and archaeological procedures.
