Supreme Court Makes Key Remarks on Religious Practices

The Supreme Court of India has made significant observations while hearing petitions challenging religious practices, stating that it is not easy for courts to declare the beliefs of millions as inappropriate or incorrect. The Constitution Bench was hearing pleas related to alleged discrimination against women in places of worship, including the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Travancore Devaswom Board, questioned whether petitions filed by individuals who do not follow a particular faith should be entertained in matters of religious customs.

The Bench emphasized that religious traditions are deeply connected to the faith of millions and interfering with them through public interest litigations may not always be appropriate. Observations were made by judges including Justice Surya Kant, Justice B. V. Nagarathna, and Justice M. M. Sundresh, who highlighted the complexity of adjudicating on faith-based practices. The court also noted that the Sabarimala temple has unique traditions linked to Lord Ayyappa’s lifelong celibacy, with certain entry restrictions seen as part of preserving its distinct character. The hearing will continue further as the court examines the balance between constitutional rights and religious beliefs.