As the Supreme Court gears up for a crucial review of the Sabarimala women entry verdict, Kerala’s ruling LDF government is treading carefully. The Vijayan administration has signaled it won’t rush into a stance, opting for comprehensive consultations amid mounting calls from Hindu organizations to uphold traditions.
Law Minister P. Rajeev described the controversy as a multifaceted constitutional puzzle, far from binary. He recalled the state’s 2018 affidavit endorsing the verdict while advocating harmony between beliefs and reforms. The nine-judge bench, under CJI Suryakant, commences proceedings on April 7, with tight deadlines for briefs and debates.
Influential voices are amplifying. NSS chief G. Sukumaran Nair demanded the government flip its position, protect the shrine’s customs, and drop charges from past agitations like the Namajapa movement. SNDP leader Vellappally Natesan similarly appealed for opposition to unrestricted entry, urging reforms that respect heritage and inclusive dialogue.
This comes five years after the apex court’s historic ruling dismantled the menstrual-age restriction, sparking nationwide protests. The Devaswom Board, once supportive, now faces scrutiny. With elections looming, the government’s pivot could influence Hindu votes in the state.
Observers note the delicate balance: preserving Sabarimala’s sanctity draws lakhs of devotees annually, while equality pushes challenge orthodoxies. Kerala’s response will set precedents for faith-based disputes, underscoring the judiciary’s role in evolving traditions.