Abstract

In India's legal and constitutional history, the Sabarimala Temple case is a seminal ruling that tackles the relationship between female equality and religious traditions. According to the Supreme Court, excluding women of menstrual age from attending the Sabarimala temple was a violation of their constitutionally guaranteed fundamental rights. The Indian Young Lawyers' Association brought the lawsuit, arguing that Rule 3(b) of the Kerala Hindu Places of Public Worship (Authorisation of Entry) Rules, 1965, was unconstitutional. The petitioners claimed that these limitations violated Articles 14, 15, 17, 21, and 25 of the Indian Constitution and were discriminatory. The majority finding that women's exclusion lacked the stature of an important religious practice prioritised constitutional values above traditions. While Justice Nariman reiterated that constitutional ideals must take precedence over regressive practices, Justice Chandrachud compared the practice to untouchability under Article 17. Justice Indu Malhotra, on the other hand, dissented, arguing that until a community itself questions its traditions, courts shouldn't become involved in religious affairs. Intense social and political discussions followed the ruling, which resulted in review petitions and the formation of a nine-judge bench to consider more general issues of religious freedom. This case will influence future law on fundamental religious practices by highlighting the constitutional conundrum of striking a balance between gender fairness and religious autonomy. The verdict, which upholds the idea that religious liberties in a diverse and democratic society must be interpreted in light of constitutional morality, continues to be a crucial point of reference in India's developing legal debate on religious rights and equality.

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