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Diversity Is India's Strength': Supreme Court On Sabarimala-Linked Case
On May 7, 2026, the Supreme Court's nine-judge bench heard submissions in the Sabarimala reference, with judges underscoring India's diversity as a civilizational strength. The hearing covered the interplay of Articles 25 and 26 about religious practices and ex-communication, while arguments referenced the Dawoodi Bohra community and broader implications for religious rights.
Why It Matters
The proceedings address how constitutional rights interact with religious practices across communities, potentially influencing women's access to religious spaces and related social rights in India.
Timeline
2 Events
Hearing on the Sabarimala reference before a nine-judge bench
May 7, 2026
On May 7, 2026, a nine-judge Supreme Court bench heard submissions on the Sabarimala reference. Justice BV Nagarathna highlighted India’s civilization as grounded in plurality and diversity, suggesting the court’s decision will impact the broader civilizational fabric. Senior advocate Raju Ramachandran argued that India is a civilization under a Constitution and that anything contrary to the Constitution cannot continue, stressing the court's duty to adjudicate on issues involving fundamental rights. He described ex-communication practices in the Dawoodi Bohra community as causing social harm, and discussed the interplay between Articles 25 and 26. The bench noted considerations about how to handle competing claims within religious groups and the broader implications for women's access to religious spaces and related practices.
Sabarimala verdict of 2018 (landmark) – women’s entry
2018
The article references the landmark 2018 Sabarimala verdict that allowed entry of women of all ages to Kerala's Lord Ayyappa temple.