Kerala's Sabarimala Stance: Left Ministers Maintain Devotee Support Amid Opposition Pressure

Despite pressure from the opposition, Kerala's Left ministers refrain from clarifying their stance on the Sabarimala women's entry issue, asserting their historical support for devotees. Ministers state a decision will be made post-discussions with experts, as the Supreme Court reopens the case, with hearings scheduled for April.

Kerala's Left ministers are facing mounting pressure from the opposition but are steadfastly refusing to clarify their stance on the contentious issue of women's entry into the Sabarimala shrine. They affirm their commitment to supporting devotees while emphasizing that the state government will consult constitutional experts and scholars before forming an opinion.

The Supreme Court has reignited the debate, announcing it will re-examine the case with a nine-judge bench to address questions of discrimination in places of worship. The ministers indicated that April would see arguments, signaling that the government would hold discussions before presenting its stance.

Opposition calls for immediate clarity have been met with a refusal to give a direct yes-or-no answer. Ministers maintain it's premature to declare a position, as the core of the matter involves complex constitutional issues. However, the Left government's past support for women's entry has fueled ongoing protests and remains a pivotal election issue in Kerala.

(With inputs from agencies.)