Kerala Government Defers Sabarimala Women Entry Stance Ahead of Elections
With Kerala moving toward Assembly elections, the ruling Left government on Tuesday refrained from declaring its position on allowing women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala Temple. Officials stated they would decide after consultations and when the Supreme Court formally seeks their response.
Government Ministers Cite Apex Court Process
Facing sustained pressure from opposition parties, Law Minister P Rajeev and Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan clarified that the Supreme Court had only constituted a larger bench to examine review petitions and had not yet requested the state government's official stance. "We have always been with the devotees. There is no doubt about it. We will never stand against devotees," Vasavan told reporters, while avoiding a direct answer on whether the government would support or oppose women's entry.
He indicated that arguments in the matter would commence in April, and the government would inform the court of its position after necessary discussions. Rajeev echoed this view, noting that the court would first examine whether it had the authority to intervene in traditional ritualistic practices at places of worship. "So, it is illogical to ask the government to announce its stand at this juncture," he explained.
Supreme Court's Role and Government's Timeline
The minister added that the Supreme Court had indicated it would consider review pleas only after addressing seven fundamental questions, providing the government time to consult constitutional experts and scholars before making a decision. This procedural delay allows the administration to navigate the politically sensitive issue carefully.
Political Flashpoint in Poll-Bound Kerala
The issue has resurfaced as a major political flashpoint in election-bound Kerala, with the Congress and BJP demanding clarity from the CPI(M)-led government. The government had previously backed the implementation of the 2018 verdict permitting women of all ages to enter the shrine, a move that triggered widespread protests across the state.
CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby also avoided a categorical reply, stating that if the government wished to clarify its stand, it would hold discussions and reach an appropriate decision. Referring to the earlier unrest, he emphasized that any decision must follow due deliberations and should not lead to avoidable social tensions.
Supreme Court Reopens Controversy
The controversy regained momentum after the Supreme Court on Monday reopened the matter, announcing that a nine-judge bench would begin final hearings on petitions relating to discrimination against women in religions and places of worship, including Sabarimala. This judicial intervention has intensified the political debate.
Government's Cautious Approach Under Pressure
Under pressure from Hindu caste organizations and opposition parties, the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government has maintained that the issue involves constitutional complexities and that it would adopt an appropriate stand after discussions. The opposition has urged the government to file a revised affidavit in the apex court to clarify its position, highlighting the electoral stakes involved.
As Kerala prepares for elections, the Sabarimala issue remains a critical test for the Left government, balancing legal obligations, religious sentiments, and political strategy in a highly charged atmosphere.
