Supreme Court Forms Diverse Nine-Judge Bench for Sabarimala Review

Original: Supreme Court’s Sabarimala review bench reflects diversity across faith, region and gender

Hindustan Times•Apr 6, 20265 min

In a Nutshell

The Supreme Court of India has constituted a nine-judge bench to review the Sabarimala temple case, reflecting diversity in gender, religion, and region. Headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, the bench will address sensitive issues surrounding women's entry into religious sites and the balance between faith and constitutional rights starting April 7.

Key Points

01The nine-judge bench reflects diversity in gender, religion, and regional representation.
02Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasizes balancing individual rights with institutional stability.
03Justice BV Nagarathna's inclusion highlights gender equality issues in the case.
04The bench will address broader questions of constitutional morality and religious freedom.
05The review includes significant historical cases related to religious practices and women's rights.

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Full Summary

The Supreme Court of India has established a nine-judge bench to review the Sabarimala temple case, which has been a contentious issue regarding women's entry into places of worship. The bench, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, includes justices from diverse backgrounds, reflecting India's pluralism. This composition aims to lend legitimacy to the court's ruling on sensitive matters that intersect faith and fundamental rights. Justice BV Nagarathna, the only woman on the bench, is particularly significant as the case involves the exclusion of menstruating women from the temple. The bench also includes judges from various religious communities, enhancing the representation of different faiths in judicial proceedings. The review will not only address the Sabarimala case but also examine related issues, such as the rights of Muslim women to enter mosques and the implications of religious practices on constitutional guarantees. The hearing is set to begin on April 7.

Key Figures

9

Number of judges on the bench

April 7

Date the hearings will commence

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Why It Matters

The ruling may redefine women's rights in religious contexts and influence access to places of worship across various faiths in India.

Who is affected

Women seeking entry into religious sites, religious communities, and the general public interested in constitutional rights.

What to know

Individuals and organizations advocating for women's rights in religious contexts should monitor the proceedings closely.

FAQ

The case primarily focuses on women's entry into the Sabarimala temple and broader issues of religious freedom and constitutional rights.

The bench's composition is significant as it reflects diversity in gender, religion, and regional representation, which may influence the legitimacy and acceptance of its ruling.

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