Travancore Devaswom Board to File Affidavit in Supreme Court Opposing Entry of Women at Sabarimala

The Travancore Devaswom Board has decided to file an affidavit in the Supreme Court of India opposing the entry of menstruating-age women into the Sabarimala Temple.

Currently, only young girls and elderly women are permitted to offer prayers at the temple, while women of menstruating age are traditionally not allowed.

Background of the Case

In 2018, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark verdict permitting women of all age groups to enter and worship at Sabarimala. Following the ruling, several review petitions were filed by various parties challenging the judgment. These petitions are currently under consideration by the Court.

Recently, the Supreme Court directed the Kerala government and concerned parties to submit their stand on the matter by the 14th of this month.

Board’s Stand

After a consultation meeting held on Monday, Board President K. Jayakumar stated that the Travancore Devaswom Board has unanimously decided to maintain the current practice, which does not permit entry of menstruating-age women.

He emphasized that the Board does not support the 2018 Supreme Court verdict and believes that the temple’s long-standing traditions must be preserved. The Board plans to file its affidavit before the deadline.

Additional Decisions

The Board also discussed administrative matters, including reclaiming certain rooms within the temple premises that were found to be encroached upon. These rooms will be renovated and allocated appropriately for devotees.

During the pilgrimage season, announcements at the temple will be made in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and Malayalam. The Board is also considering publishing a 24-page monthly magazine in Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada, English, and Tamil to improve communication with devotees from various states.

The issue remains a significant legal and social debate in Kerala and across India, as the final decision awaits further judicial review.

Source : Dinamani