New Delhi, September 18 : Chief Justice of India, B.R. Gavai, addressed concerns on Thursday regarding his comments about the restoration of a Lord Vishnu idol in Khajuraho, stating that his statements had been misrepresented on social media. "I was informed recently that my remarks have been portrayed in a certain way on social media… I want to clarify that I respect all religions," he affirmed.

The controversy stemmed from remarks made earlier this week, when CJI Gavai dismissed a petition related to the restoration of a seven-foot Lord Vishnu idol at the Javari Temple in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. The plea, filed by Rakesh Dalal, called for the reconstruction and reinstallation of the damaged idol at the temple in Chhatarpur district.

In a bench hearing led by CJI Gavai on Tuesday, the Chief Justice expressed his disapproval, labeling the petition as "purely publicity interest litigation." He further remarked, “If you are such a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, then pray and meditate. Don’t involve the court for such matters." The petition was subsequently rejected, with the court highlighting that the issue fell under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

CJI Gavai emphasized that the case concerned an archaeological discovery, stating, "This is an archaeological find, and it is for the ASI to determine whether such restoration is permissible."

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who appeared before the bench, vouched for CJI Gavai's respect for all religions, mentioning their long-standing professional association of over a decade and confirming that the Chief Justice had visited numerous religious sites.