Sabarimala Case: Tushar Mehta Warns CJI Suryakant on Hinduism's Diversity

• Supreme Court's 9-judge bench hears crucial case on equal rights for women in religious places, including Sabarimala Temple.
• Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued against narrow interpretation of 'religious denomination' and 'essential religious practice' to protect Hinduism's diversity.
• Centre cited Ajmer Dargah and Shirdi Sai Baba Temple as examples of India's complex religious identity, emphasizing multi-layered faith.
• Court noted India's unique religious structure, stating rigid principles cannot be blindly applied to define 'religious denomination'.
• Justice BV Nagarathna distinguished between propagating religion and forced conversion, affirming Article 25 allows propagation but not forced conversion.

Key Questions Answered

How will this ruling impact other religious sites?

The ruling on meat bans in Haridwar for the Ardh Kumbh 2027 has led to calls for similar restrictions at other religious sites.

What are the next steps in the Sabarimala case?

The Supreme Court's nine-judge bench began hearing review petitions on April 7, 2026, examining seven legal questions on religious rights and freedoms.

Could this redefine religious denomination in India?

The inclusion of live-in couples in the upcoming census could redefine family structures in India.