The Supreme Court heard arguments claiming women in South India avoid temples during menstruation as a matter of belief, not bias. The hearing is part of the ongoing Sabarimala review examining the clash between equality and religious freedom.
SG Tushar Mehta told the Supreme Court that India respects women and rejected the idea of patriarchy in the Sabarimala case. The Centre argued temple entry rules are based on religious faith, not gender discrimination, as the court continues hearing the matter.
The Tamil Nadu HR&CE body told the Supreme Court that temples lack profit motive and cannot be treated as “industry” under labour laws. The issue arises in a crucial hearing where the Court is reconsidering its 1978 ruling on the definition of “industry.”
The Centre told a 9-judge Supreme Court Bench that an overly wide definition of “industry” can burden employers and discourage private investment. The Court is now re-examining the landmark 1978 ruling that brought almost all professions under the scope of “industry.”
