CJI's Call for Clarity Amid Social Media Storm

Chief Justice of India B R Gavai reaffirmed his commitment to respecting all religions after facing criticism on social media concerning his comments about the reconstruction of a Lord Vishnu idol.

On May 16, a bench including the CJI and Justice K Vinod Chandran dismissed a plea for reinstalling a Vishnu idol at the UNESCO-listed Javari Temple in Madhya Pradesh. The CJI labeled the plea as "publicity interest litigation," advising the petitioners to direct their spiritual concerns to the deity. He also highlighted the presence of a significant Shiva linga at the location for worship.

Social media quickly reacted, spreading information that Solicitor General Tushar Mehta deemed "totally incorrect." Mehta and others, including Justice Vinod Chandran and senior advocates, criticized the unwarranted social media escalation, calling it a modern-day challenge of misinformation.

(With inputs from agencies.)