Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) president Alok Kumar issued a powerful condemnation on Thursday, September 18, 2025, regarding a statement attributed to Chief Justice of India, B.R. Gavai, concerning the Hindu deity, Vishnu. The organization has also called for universal restraint in speech, particularly when such discussions touch upon the deeply held religious sentiments of individuals.
The controversy arose when a Supreme Court Bench, led by the Chief Justice and including Justice Vinod Chandran, dismissed a petition filed by Rakesh Dalal. The petition sought a court order for the restoration of a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu located at the Javari temple in Khajuraho. The Bench clarified that the matter fell under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
During the proceedings on September 16, 2025, the Chief Justice reportedly made an oral observation suggesting that the petitioner should directly appeal to the deity for a solution.
“Go and ask the deity itself to do something now. You say you are a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. So go and pray now. It’s an archaeological site and ASI needs to give permission….,” the CJI was quoted as saying.
In response to these remarks, Mr. Kumar emphasized the sanctity of the judiciary, stating that the court is a revered institution of justice where Indian society places immense faith and trust.
“It is the duty of all of us that this trust not only remains intact but also grows stronger. It is also the duty of all of us to exercise restraint in our speech. Especially inside the court. This responsibility lies with those fighting the case, with the lawyers, and equally with the Judges,” Mr. Kumar articulated.
The VHP chief, who is also an esteemed practicing lawyer, conveyed the organization’s view that the Chief Justice’s oral comments appeared to mock the tenets of Hinduism.
“It would be better to avoid such remarks,” he concluded.