CJI clarifies remarks on broken idol

CJI B R Gavai on Thursday clarified that he respects all religions, after his remarks in court on a plea concerning a damaged Lord Vishnu idol at Khajuraho drew sharp reactions on social media and from the VHP.

- Agencies

Responding to the criticism, Gavai said during a post-lunch hearing that things are often blown out of proportion online. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, present in court, defended the CJI, saying he has known him for ten years and that the CJI visits all religious places. He added, "Newton's law says that every action has an equal reaction. Now every action has a disproportionate social media reaction." Senior advocate Kapil Sibal agreed, noting that lawyers too suffer from misleading portrayals on social media.