New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Monday said a nine-judge Constitution bench will begin final hearings on a batch of petitions alleging discrimination against women in matters of faith and access to religious places, including the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala.
A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, and comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, said the larger bench — to be formally constituted by the CJI — will commence hearings on April 7. The proceedings are expected to conclude by April 22.
The court directed all parties to submit written arguments by March 14 and adhere strictly to the schedule laid down for the hearings.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, supported pleas seeking a review of the earlier verdict that permitted entry of women of all age groups into the shrine.
The court-appointed nodal counsel, Krishna Kumar Singh, will coordinate submissions from parties backing the review, while Shashwati Pari will represent those opposing it.
The bench also appointed senior advocate K Parameshwar, along with Shivam Singh as amici curiae, with Singh tasked to compile and present the positions of all parties before the court.
According to the court’s order, arguments from review petitioners and supporting parties will be heard from April 7 to April 9, followed by submissions from those opposing the review between April 14 and April 16. Rejoinder arguments, if any, will be taken up on April 21, after which the amici will make final submissions. The matter is slated to conclude on April 22.
