The bench also indicated that it may refer the issue to a five-judge Constitution bench after passing a detailed order. The Constitution had also given a right to ensure freedom to profess and propagate religious practices and to manage religious affairs. The plea argues that the practice symbolises a social anathema based on gender-discrimination. “We will have to balance the rights before we say anything,” said the bench as it heard a PIL seeking that the ban on entry of women to Kerala’s historic temple should be immediately lifted. The Supreme Court Monday said that the fundamental right of women to equality has to be balanced with the right of a group to profess and manage religious affairs before a decision can be taken regarding the ban on entry of women inside Kerala’s Sabarimala temple.

Source: Indian Express July 11, 2016 23:03 UTC