New Delhi: Four of the five-judge constitutional bench of the Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra upheld a plea to allow women of all ages to worship at the Sabarimala temple in Kerala.
CJI Misra who wrote the verdict for himself and Justice AM Khanwilkar said, “Dualistic approach in religions results in lowering dignity of women. The rule violates the right of woman to worship and practise religion.”
He went on to say, “Practice of exclusion of women of 10-50 age group cannot be regarded as essential religious practice.”
“Rule has to be in harmony with Constitution,” the CJI added.
Justice Rohington Fali Nariman said, “Women are equally entitled to the right to practice religion.”
CJI Misra, Justice Khanwilakr and Justice Nariman were backed by Justice D Y Chandrachud.
“Article 25 of the Constitution protects the equal entitlement on all persons to freely practice religion,” Justice Chandrachud said.
