Kerala government softens stance on women's entry to Sabarimala temple in Supreme Court
The Kerala government has moderated its previous firm stance in the Supreme Court regarding the entry of women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple. In new submissions, the State urged the court to assess if the age-old restrictions are a "genuinely and conscientiously" held essential religious practice, rather than being guided solely by reason or sentiment. This move comes ahead of a Supreme Court Bench hearing review petitions against the 2018 judgment on April 7, 2026, and is seen as politically significant given the upcoming Assembly polls.
Key Points
- The Kerala government has shifted its position on the Sabarimala temple entry issue, urging the Supreme Court for a careful assessment of religious practices.
- The State's new submission emphasizes determining if the age-old restriction on women's entry is an "essential religious practice."
- This moderation in stance is politically sensitive, occurring just before the State's Assembly elections.
- The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear review petitions against its 2018 judgment on April 7, 2026.
- The government suggested that judicial review should involve wide consultation with religious scholars and social reformers.
Exam Facts
- The Sabarimala temple is located in Kerala.
- The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear review petitions against the 2018 judgment on April 7, 2026.
- The State's submission was filed by senior advocate Jaideep Gupta and advocate Nishe Rajen Shonker.
- The issue concerns the entry of women of menstrual age (between menarche and menopause) into the temple.
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