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Supreme Court Reviews Sabarimala Ruling on Women’s Access

4/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A nine-judge Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant is reviewing petitions against the 2018 ruling allowing menstruating-age women at Sabarimala temple.
The court will also hear similar cases from other faiths, extending the context to broader religious practices.
The federal government supports the restriction, arguing it respects religious practices.
Hearings are scheduled to conclude by April 22, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The Supreme Court of India ruled on September 28, 2018, that women of all ages could enter the Sabarimala temple, overturning a long-standing ban based on traditional beliefs about menstruation. This decision followed a 2006 petition by the Indian Young Lawyers' Association and reflects ongoing tensions between religious customs and gender equality, potentially influencing future legal interpretations of women's rights in India.

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Story summary

A nine-judge Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant is reviewing petitions against the 2018 ruling allowing menstruating-age women at Sabarimala temple.
The court will also hear similar cases from other faiths, extending the context to broader religious practices.
The federal government supports the restriction, arguing it respects religious practices.
Hearings are scheduled to conclude by April 22, 2026.

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