The world over, issues of gender disparity and gender biased norms have been brought to the fore front in public debate. India is no exception. Women have started asserting their rights in public sphere against discriminatory religious practices which denies her entry into places of worship. These acts have been justified on the basis of her menstruation, the weakness of physical frame or some other vague reason. But they are now being challenged in the doors of Supreme Court by women seeking equality in terms of religion.
What is the Issue?
The Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala region, one of the most revered pilgrimage site for Hindus have restricted women of menstruating age (10 to 50 years) from entering their sanctum. The reasons cited for following this tradition included,
This tradition was re-enforced with the Kerala High Court ruling in 1991 citing banning of women in menstruation age did not amount to discriminatory practice as it has existed from time immemorial.
Supreme Court Observations
However, in Indian Young lawyers Association vs. the State of Kerala case the Supreme Court while observing the reasons for age related restriction placed on women commented,
Significance of the Judgement
Way Forward
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