CJI BR Gavai Clarifies Khajuraho Temple Remarks, Says Comments Misrepresented on Social Media

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Thursday addressed the controversy surrounding his remarks about the Khajuraho temple during a Supreme Court hearing, asserting that his comments were “misrepresented” and “taken out of context” on social media. The clarification came after his statements sparked criticism from religious groups and social media users.

Speaking in an open court, CJI Gavai said, “Someone told me the other day that the comments I made were mis-portrayed on social media. I respect all religions.” He emphasized that his words were meant to reflect the legal and procedural aspects of the case rather than any religious sentiment.

The remarks in question were made during a September 16 hearing, when the Supreme Court dismissed a plea seeking the reinstallation of a seven-foot idol of Lord Vishnu at the Javari Temple, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khajuraho group of monuments in Madhya Pradesh. The bench had described the petition as “purely publicity interest litigation.”

Addressing the petitioner’s religious claims, CJI Gavai had suggested, “Go and ask the deity himself to do something. If you are saying that you are a strong devotee of Lord Vishnu, then you pray and do some meditation.” He further clarified that the matter fell under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), noting that the ASI has the authority to decide on archaeological and heritage concerns. “It’s an archaeological find; whether the ASI would permit such a thing or not, there are various issues,” the Chief Justice had said.

Additional comments referring to other temples in the Khajuraho complex also drew attention. CJI Gavai had remarked, “In the meantime, if you are not averse to Shaivism, you can go and worship there. There is a very big linga of Shiva, one of the biggest in Khajuraho.” These observations were widely circulated on social media, often out of context, leading to misunderstandings and backlash.