New Delhi, Feb 16: The Supreme Court on Monday announced that a nine-judge bench will conduct the final hearing on petitions challenging discrimination against women in religious practices and at places of worship, including the high-profile Sabarimala Temple in Kerala.
The bench, to be constituted by Chief Justice Surya Kant, is scheduled to begin proceedings on April 7, with the hearing expected to conclude on April 22. Written submissions from all parties have been directed to be filed by March 14.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, expressed support for the review petitions challenging the 2018 Sabarimala verdict that allowed women of all ages to enter the shrine. The court appointed Krishna Kumar Singh as nodal counsel for petitioners seeking a review and Shashwati Pari for those opposing it.
Additionally, senior advocate K Parameshwar and Shivam Singh have been designated as amicus curiae to present the overall stand of all parties before the court.
The schedule for the hearing is as follows:
April 7–9: Arguments by review petitioners or supporting parties
April 14–16: Arguments by parties opposing the review
April 21: Rejoinder submissions, if any
April 22: Final submissions by the amicus and conclusion of the hearing
The Supreme Court emphasized strict adherence to the timetable to ensure a smooth and conclusive hearing on this landmark matter concerning women’s entry and equality at religious sites.