Kerala's Complex Constitutional Crossroads: The Sabarimala Women Entry Debate

The Kerala government is navigating the intricate constitutional challenges surrounding women's entry into the Sabarimala Temple. State Law Minister P Rajeev emphasized the complexity of the issue, which is under Supreme Court consideration. A nine-judge bench will address related petitions, with hearings scheduled from April 7 to April 22.

The Left government in Kerala has acknowledged the constitutional complexities surrounding women's entry into the Sabarimala Temple, a contentious issue set for review by the Supreme Court. State Law Minister P Rajeev clarified the government's position, stating it isn't a straightforward 'yes or no' matter due to its multifaceted constitutional implications.

Minister Rajeev highlighted the need for careful deliberation and affirmed the government's commitment to protecting the faith of believers while also considering social reform. The state had previously proposed forming a scholarly commission to study the issue, an idea not taken up by the court. Nonetheless, the government continues to support this recommendation.

The Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, will begin hearings on the matter on April 7, addressing various petitions related to gender discrimination in religious practices. The legal proceedings, expected to conclude by April 22, aim to address the broader constitutional questions raised by the Sabarimala debate.

(With inputs from agencies.)