New Delhi: In a significant submission before the Supreme Court of India, the Centre has defended the long-standing practice at the Sabarimala Temple, stating that the restriction on women of menstruating age is rooted in religious tradition rather than discrimination.
The government clarified that the custom is linked to the unique character of Lord Ayyappa, who is revered as a Naishtika Brahmachari (eternal celibate). According to the Centre, the restriction—applicable to women between the ages of 10 and 50—is not based on ideas of impurity or inequality, but on preserving the sanctity and traditions of the temple.
Highlighting constitutional provisions, the Centre argued that religious practices and beliefs deserve protection under the right to freedom of religion. It also maintained that the Sabarimala temple represents a distinct religious tradition with its own set of customs.
The matter, which has sparked nationwide debate over the balance between gender equality and religious freedom, is set to come up for further hearing in the Supreme Court.
