Supreme Court Questions Constitution's Role in Sabarimala Temple Access for Believers
Sabarimala case: Will Constitution not come to rescue of believer who is not allowed to touch deity, says SC
The Economic TimesImage: The Economic Times
The Supreme Court of India is examining the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple's restrictions on devotees, particularly regarding women's access to the deity. During the hearing, justices questioned whether the Constitution protects believers from discrimination based on birth or lineage, amidst ongoing debates about religious freedom and practices.
- 01The Supreme Court is reviewing petitions related to discrimination against women in religious practices.
- 02The chief priest argued that temple rituals must align with the deity's characteristics.
- 03Justice Amanullah questioned the constitutionality of restricting access based on lineage.
- 04The court previously lifted a ban on women entering the temple in 2018, deeming it unconstitutional.
- 05The matter has been referred to a larger bench for further examination.
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The Supreme Court of India is currently deliberating on issues surrounding the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in Kerala, particularly the restrictions placed on women and other devotees. During a recent hearing, the court questioned the chief priest about the role of the Constitution in protecting believers who are barred from touching the deity due to their birth or lineage. Senior advocate V Giri, representing the chief priest, argued that the rituals and ceremonies at the temple are integral to the religion and must be respected. Justice Amanullah raised concerns about the implications of denying access to devotees based on their lineage, emphasizing that such restrictions may contradict the fundamental beliefs of worshippers. This case follows a landmark 2018 ruling where the Supreme Court lifted a ban on women aged 10 to 50 from entering the temple, declaring the practice unconstitutional. The ongoing hearings reflect the complex interplay between religious freedom and constitutional rights in India, with the court set to further evaluate these issues in light of broader societal implications.
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This case could redefine access rights for women and other devotees at religious sites, potentially influencing practices across various faiths in India.
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