SC Sabarimala-judgment: Women activists elated but concerned over ground reality
Women activists today hailed the Supreme Court judgment allowing entry of women into Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala in Kerala but expressed concern over its acceptance at the ground level. A five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra, in its 4:1 verdict, said that banning the entry of women into the shrine is gender discrimination and the practice violates rights of Hindu women.
"Doubtful if temple authorities would take it in right spirit"
Chhavi Methi, a women rights activist welcomed the judgment but said its acceptance remains to be seen. "I am doubtful the temple authorities would take it in the right spirit. Women would accept it but its implementation might pose a problem," she said. Another women rights activist, Vani Subramaniam said the decision is an extension of various pro-equality judgments taken by the Supreme Court.
All India Democratic Women's Association welcomes SC judgment
Mariam Dhawale, General Secretary, All India Democratic Women's Association, called it another step that would help in bringing equality. "We welcome the judgment. Women have a constitutional right to be able to visit the temple and whoever wishes must be allowed to visit it."
