Supreme Court rejected a PIL Monday challenging the bus fare of Rs 49 to go to the temple in Sabarimala in Kerala.&nbsp;

A bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said, "Sorry, we can't decide here what should be the bus fare? Are we now going to decide the bus fare?"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Supreme Court rejected a PIL challenging the bus fare of Rs 49 to go to the temple in Sabarimala in Kerala. A bench of the apex court, headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi said,"Sorry, we can't decide here what should be the bus fare?Are we now going to decide the bus fare?"
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1110055246854676481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the Supreme court also refused to entertain a plea filed by a former DGP of Uttar Pradesh seeking a direction to the Election Commission of India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-plea-seeking-ban-on-roadshows-bike-rallies-during-polls-205462">to ban roadshows</a> and bike rallies during polls.

Supreme Court rejected a PIL Monday challenging the bus fare of Rs 49 to go to the temple in Sabarimala in Kerala. A bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said, "Sorry, we can't decide here what should be the bus fare?

Supreme Court rejected a PIL Monday challenging the bus fare of Rs 49 to go to the temple in Sabarimala in Kerala. A bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said, "Sorry, we can't decide here what should be the bus fare? Are we now going to decide the bus fare?" Supreme Court rejected a PIL challenging the bus fare of Rs 49 to go to the temple in Sabarimala in Kerala. A bench of the apex court, headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi said,"Sorry, we can't decide here what should be the bus fare?Are we now going to decide the bus fare?" — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Supreme court also refused to entertain a plea filed by a former DGP of Uttar Pradesh seeking a direction to the Election Commission of India to ban roadshows and bike rallies during polls.

'Are we now to decide bus fare?' asks Supreme Court

The State Election Commission (SEC) Monday warned political parties in Kerala not to use the Sabarimala temple matter as a campaign issue.

Kerala Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Teeka Ram Meena told the media here that "citing or invoking" religious propaganda on the "Sabarimala issue" would be a clear violation of the model code of conduct.

"Inviting religious feelings, using any kind of Supreme Court judgement, invoking or soliciting the votes in the name of religion or by inciting religious feelings is a clear violation of the model code of conduct," he said.

The CEC also said the commission would not allow any kind of violation that puts a particular political party at an advantage over another.

"Citing or invoking or doing something of religious propaganda on the Sabarimala issue by invoking the name of Sabari God, etc., will be a clear violation of the model code of conduct," Meena said.

He added that the Sabarimala issue was a controversial matter as far as Kerala was concerned and political parties "need to draw a line to what extent they have to use it".

"Tomorrow, I am holding a meeting with political parties in this regard and I will be requesting them not to unnecessarily use this religious feeling or religious traditions to solicit votes as this may create some religious tensions among people.

If that happens, action will be taken against those responsible," Meena said.

Kerala witnessed widespread violence by devotees and right-wing activists after the state government decided to implement the Supreme Court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple.

The BJP has already pinned its hope on the Sabarimala issue as it believes that it was able to create momentum among its workers.

The central leadership of the saffron party brought back former BJP state chief Kummanam Rajashekharan, who was appointed as Mizoram governor nine months ago, to lead the party in the state.

The Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23. 
Kerala will go to the polls on April 23.&nbsp;

The State Election Commission (SEC) Monday warned political parties in Kerala not to use the Sabarimala temple matter as a campaign issue. Kerala Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Teeka Ram Meena told the media here that "citing or invoking" religious propaganda on the "Sabarimala issue" would be a clear violation of the model code of conduct.

The State Election Commission (SEC) Monday warned political parties in Kerala not to use the Sabarimala temple matter as a campaign issue. Kerala Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Teeka Ram Meena told the media here that "citing or invoking" religious propaganda on the "Sabarimala issue" would be a clear violation of the model code of conduct. "Inviting religious feelings, using any kind of Supreme Court judgement, invoking or soliciting the votes in the name of religion or by inciting religious feelings is a clear violation of the model code of conduct," he said. The CEC also said the commission would not allow any kind of violation that puts a particular political party at an advantage over another. "Citing or invoking or doing something of religious propaganda on the Sabarimala issue by invoking the name of Sabari God, etc., will be a clear violation of the model code of conduct," Meena said. He added that the Sabarimala issue was a controversial matter as far as Kerala was concerned and political parties "need to draw a line to what extent they have to use it". "Tomorrow, I am holding a meeting with political parties in this regard and I will be requesting them not to unnecessarily use this religious feeling or religious traditions to solicit votes as this may create some religious tensions among people. If that happens, action will be taken against those responsible," Meena said. Kerala witnessed widespread violence by devotees and right-wing activists after the state government decided to implement the Supreme Court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple. The BJP has already pinned its hope on the Sabarimala issue as it believes that it was able to create momentum among its workers. The central leadership of the saffron party brought back former BJP state chief Kummanam Rajashekharan, who was appointed as Mizoram governor nine months ago, to lead the party in the state. The Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23. Kerala will go to the polls on April 23.

Lok Sabha: Kerala poll body warns parties against use of Sabarimala issue in campaigning

Amid a row over the entry of women of menstrual age into Sabarimala temple, Union Minister Smriti Irani said Friday that religious practices should be "respected" and anyone breaching them just to "make headlines" would do a great disservice to the country's diversity.

She said this during an event in Delhi University campus in response to a question from a student on Irani's recent comments on the issue where she said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate.

"I speak from personal experience. And, I said that publicly when I made that comment..I am married to a Zoroastrian, i.E., a Parsi, and by law, I am not allowed (to enter fire temple). And, by law means not by the Constitution but by laws that govern that particular religious practice," she said.

"Irrespective of how empowered I am, I am not allowed to enter a fire temple," Irani told a gathering of students at a business conclave event at Shri Ram College of Commerce here.

The textile minister said her earlier comments on the issue was to tell that there are religious practices across different communities.

"I have not gone to the Supreme Court, to tell Supreme Court to give me the power to barge into a fire temple, because I respect the religious beliefs of the community that I am associated with.

"That community says, I will not have access to a fire temple. I have to stand on the road when my children are inside, praying," she said.

She was asked why should there be a blanket restriction on women's entry to the Lord Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala, over objections from certain quarters.

"It is incumbent upon you to respect that religious practice because the Constitution gives us rights to be free, but it also impinges upon us responsibilities towards fellow citizens," she said.

Irani said there are "many temples" across the country, where "men are not allowed".

There are many churches, many mosques where restrictions are given for religious practices to be undertaken, she said.

"As individuals, it is our responsibility, given the diverse nature of communities in our country, to respect those tenets, and those practices.

"Do we breach practices only because we seek to make headlines or do we talk about only and only matters of faith. And, that is where my comments came from," she said.

"That if I breach somebody's religious practice only because my face will be in the newspaper, then I do great disservice to the diversity of India," Irani said.

On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court, headed by then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.

Amid protests against the Supreme Court order opening the temple to women of all ages, Irani had in October said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate.

"I am nobody to speak against the Supreme Court verdict as I am a serving cabinet minister. But just plain common sense is that would you carry a napkin seeped with menstrual blood and walk into a friend's house. You would not," she had said then, adding, "And would you think it is respectful to do the same when you walk into the house of God? That is the difference. I have the right to pray, but no right to desecrate. That is the difference that we need to recognise and respect."

Besides, the minister was asked about the allegation that the BJP-led government hid important unemployment statistics which purportedly led to the resignation of key people in the National Statistical Commission.

"I am happy that you asked this question because it gives me a sense of the distortion that is being done amongst people with regards to...Fake news," Irani said in response.

The minister referred to initiatives such as the Rs 6,000-crore package to apparel manufacturers, 1.3 crore homes built by the present government, 1.7 crore capital assets built across the country by the present government through MNREGA and plan of building 1 lakh well-ness centres across the country to counter the lack of job creation narrative.

"If you look at the figures, they speak for themselves...," Irani said.

She claimed that before the present BJP-led government assumed, rural job guarantee scheme MNREGA was used so that doles could be given out and no capital assets could be built for the country.

"We insisted that you build capital assets and as compared to the previous government where only 20 lakh such assets were made we ensured that 1.7 crore capital assets are built by those very fellow citizens who were part of a pre-existing opportunity," said the minister.

Amid a row over the entry of women of menstrual age into Sabarimala temple, Union Minister Smriti Irani said Friday that religious practices should be "respected" and anyone breaching them just to "make headlines" would do a great disservice to the country's diversity.

Amid a row over the entry of women of menstrual age into Sabarimala temple, Union Minister Smriti Irani said Friday that religious practices should be "respected" and anyone breaching them just to "make headlines" would do a great disservice to the country's diversity. She said this during an event in Delhi University campus in response to a question from a student on Irani's recent comments on the issue where she said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate. "I speak from personal experience. And, I said that publicly when I made that comment..I am married to a Zoroastrian, i.E., a Parsi, and by law, I am not allowed (to enter fire temple). And, by law means not by the Constitution but by laws that govern that particular religious practice," she said. "Irrespective of how empowered I am, I am not allowed to enter a fire temple," Irani told a gathering of students at a business conclave event at Shri Ram College of Commerce here. The textile minister said her earlier comments on the issue was to tell that there are religious practices across different communities. "I have not gone to the Supreme Court, to tell Supreme Court to give me the power to barge into a fire temple, because I respect the religious beliefs of the community that I am associated with. "That community says, I will not have access to a fire temple. I have to stand on the road when my children are inside, praying," she said. She was asked why should there be a blanket restriction on women's entry to the Lord Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala, over objections from certain quarters. "It is incumbent upon you to respect that religious practice because the Constitution gives us rights to be free, but it also impinges upon us responsibilities towards fellow citizens," she said. Irani said there are "many temples" across the country, where "men are not allowed". There are many churches, many mosques where restrictions are given for religious practices to be undertaken, she said. "As individuals, it is our responsibility, given the diverse nature of communities in our country, to respect those tenets, and those practices. "Do we breach practices only because we seek to make headlines or do we talk about only and only matters of faith. And, that is where my comments came from," she said. "That if I breach somebody's religious practice only because my face will be in the newspaper, then I do great disservice to the diversity of India," Irani said. On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court, headed by then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine. Amid protests against the Supreme Court order opening the temple to women of all ages, Irani had in October said that the right to pray did not mean the right to desecrate. "I am nobody to speak against the Supreme Court verdict as I am a serving cabinet minister. But just plain common sense is that would you carry a napkin seeped with menstrual blood and walk into a friend's house. You would not," she had said then, adding, "And would you think it is respectful to do the same when you walk into the house of God? That is the difference. I have the right to pray, but no right to desecrate. That is the difference that we need to recognise and respect." Besides, the minister was asked about the allegation that the BJP-led government hid important unemployment statistics which purportedly led to the resignation of key people in the National Statistical Commission. "I am happy that you asked this question because it gives me a sense of the distortion that is being done amongst people with regards to...Fake news," Irani said in response. The minister referred to initiatives such as the Rs 6,000-crore package to apparel manufacturers, 1.3 crore homes built by the present government, 1.7 crore capital assets built across the country by the present government through MNREGA and plan of building 1 lakh well-ness centres across the country to counter the lack of job creation narrative. "If you look at the figures, they speak for themselves...," Irani said. She claimed that before the present BJP-led government assumed, rural job guarantee scheme MNREGA was used so that doles could be given out and no capital assets could be built for the country. "We insisted that you build capital assets and as compared to the previous government where only 20 lakh such assets were made we ensured that 1.7 crore capital assets are built by those very fellow citizens who were part of a pre-existing opportunity," said the minister.

Religious practices should be 'respected': Smriti Irani on Sabarimala row

Attaching impurity to a woman during the menstrual period is an abrasion to entire humanity, said Kerala government in a written submission in the Supreme Court on Sabarimala review petitions.

"Attaching impurity to a woman during the menstrual period is an abrasion to entire humanity and abhorrent to civilised society as menstruation is a natural process and is essential for procreation," the state submitted.

Senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, on behalf of State of Kerala submitted that since there can be no human beings without women's menstruation "hence, argument for exclusion of women during menstruation period on ground of impurity is a worst kind of exclusionary practice and is an anathema to humanity itself apart from being stigmatic and oppressive".

It also said that the protection under Article 26 of the Constitution to manage religious affairs was available only to "every religious denomination or section thereof" and not to devotees of a particular temple or deity.

The written submission prepared by Hansaria and advocate Sneha Kalita said that the top court has consistently held that a 'religious denomination', fulfilling the criteria of a common faith, common organisation and the designation of a distinctive name can only claim right under Article 26 of the Constitution.

However, it said, that the devotees of the Sabarimala temple do not fulfil this criterion.

The state government submitted that the restriction on entry of women was only during Mandalam, Makaeavilakku and Vishnu days and on other days, the temple was open to women worshippers of all age groups.

It said that the mere presence of a woman of a particular age group cannot be assumed to affect the celibacy of the deity and the said argument derogates the dignity of a woman and recognises even a female child of 10 years as a "source of deviation" for the deity's celibacy.&nbsp;

Attaching impurity to a woman during the menstrual period is an abrasion to entire humanity, said Kerala government in a written submission in the Supreme Court on Sabarimala review petitions.

Attaching impurity to a woman during the menstrual period is an abrasion to entire humanity, said Kerala government in a written submission in the Supreme Court on Sabarimala review petitions. "Attaching impurity to a woman during the menstrual period is an abrasion to entire humanity and abhorrent to civilised society as menstruation is a natural process and is essential for procreation," the state submitted. Senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, on behalf of State of Kerala submitted that since there can be no human beings without women's menstruation "hence, argument for exclusion of women during menstruation period on ground of impurity is a worst kind of exclusionary practice and is an anathema to humanity itself apart from being stigmatic and oppressive". It also said that the protection under Article 26 of the Constitution to manage religious affairs was available only to "every religious denomination or section thereof" and not to devotees of a particular temple or deity. The written submission prepared by Hansaria and advocate Sneha Kalita said that the top court has consistently held that a 'religious denomination', fulfilling the criteria of a common faith, common organisation and the designation of a distinctive name can only claim right under Article 26 of the Constitution. However, it said, that the devotees of the Sabarimala temple do not fulfil this criterion. The state government submitted that the restriction on entry of women was only during Mandalam, Makaeavilakku and Vishnu days and on other days, the temple was open to women worshippers of all age groups. It said that the mere presence of a woman of a particular age group cannot be assumed to affect the celibacy of the deity and the said argument derogates the dignity of a woman and recognises even a female child of 10 years as a "source of deviation" for the deity's celibacy.

Sabarimala: Attaching impurity to menstruation an abrasion, Kerala govt to SC

Sabarimala temple, which grappled with a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-support-supreme-court-verdict-will-lift-ban-on-entry-of-women-says-temple-board-195559">crisis over the entry of young women into the shrine </a>after the Supreme Court verdict last year, reopened on Tuesday for monthly worship.

The temple will be opened for five days for the monthly ‘puja’ in the monthly Malayalam month of Kumbhom.

The state administration has deployed scores of police personnel in Pamba and surrounding areas in an attempt to avoid violence and unrest.

The Sabarimala temple and surrounding areas witnessed a string of protests since October last year over the apex court's decision to quash restrictions on the entry of women between 10 and 50 into the holy shrine.

Recently, the National Ayyappa Devotees Association (NADA) filed a petition for rehearing in Sabarimala case in the Supreme Court, citing that the devotees of Lord Ayyappa were not heard previously.

Nearly four months after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-2-women-visited-sabarimala-kerala-minister-tells-assembly-195144">top court permitted women of all age</a>s to enter the temple on September 28 last year, two women aged below 50 entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer their prayers.

Violent protests broke out all across the state, while a purification process took place in the temple following the entry of these two women—Bindu Ammini and Kanaka Durga. 
&nbsp;

Sabarimala temple, which grappled with a crisis over the entry of young women into the shrine after the Supreme Court verdict last year, reopened on Tuesday for monthly worship.

Sabarimala temple, which grappled with a crisis over the entry of young women into the shrine after the Supreme Court verdict last year, reopened on Tuesday for monthly worship. The temple will be opened for five days for the monthly ‘puja’ in the monthly Malayalam month of Kumbhom. The state administration has deployed scores of police personnel in Pamba and surrounding areas in an attempt to avoid violence and unrest. The Sabarimala temple and surrounding areas witnessed a string of protests since October last year over the apex court's decision to quash restrictions on the entry of women between 10 and 50 into the holy shrine. Recently, the National Ayyappa Devotees Association (NADA) filed a petition for rehearing in Sabarimala case in the Supreme Court, citing that the devotees of Lord Ayyappa were not heard previously. Nearly four months after the top court permitted women of all ages to enter the temple on September 28 last year, two women aged below 50 entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer their prayers. Violent protests broke out all across the state, while a purification process took place in the temple following the entry of these two women—Bindu Ammini and Kanaka Durga.

Kerala: Sabarimala temple reopens for monthly worship

A five-judge bench of India’s Supreme Court, headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi, began hearing Wednesday review petitions filed against its September 28 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-support-supreme-court-verdict-will-lift-ban-on-entry-of-women-says-temple-board-195559">verdict last year that had allowed menstruating women to enter Sabarimala temple</a> in the state of Kerala.&nbsp;

There were 56 review petitions, four new writ petitions, and two special leave petitions listed before the court.&nbsp;

The petitioners argued that their appeal was not against the Supreme Court's Sabarimala judgement but that the case involved fundamental rights guaranteed to every Indian citizen under article 25 of the Indian constitution (Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion).&nbsp;

The petitioners told the court that there was an apparent error in its Sabarimala judgment — that Article 15(2) prohibited discrimination in access to public institutions of a secular category and not of a religious category.&nbsp;

Lawyer K Parasaran submitted to the constitution bench that: “The judgement highlights the meaning given to untouchability under article 17 (Abolition of Untouchability: It is abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden. The enforcement of any disability arising out of Untouchability shall be an offence punishable in accordance with law). This will result in applying to only Hindu religious practices and institutions.”

Justice Rohinton Nariman interrupted him, saying he had referred to article 15(2) in his judgement. “Please don’t be under the notion that it was struck down only on the basis of untouchability,” he told the senior lawyer.&nbsp;

However, the counsel for the head priest of Sabarimala temple told the court that devotees had a fundamental right to worship inside temples in a manner which is in sync with the character of the deity. “Exclusion of women of menstrual age was not based on immorality, but on the essential religious practice that Sabarimala deity is a permanent celibate,” he said.&nbsp;

Senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the former chairman of the Travancore Dewaswom Board, added that In Hinduism gods are worshipped in various forms and manifestations. “In Sabarimala, the deity is worshipped in this particular manner. Exclusion of menstruating women is not based on caste but the nature of the deity. Only Justice Indu Malhotra’s dissent judgment took into consideration the Bhramachari character of the deity being worshipped. The Court assumed that unless there is universality, a practise will not become an essential religious practise. In a diverse religion like Hinduism, one cannot look for universality. This test applied in the judgment is not correct,” he said.&nbsp;

Senior lawyer Shekhar Naphre emphasised that the community did not accept the court's judgement. “The community can decide whether centuries-old belief should be changed or not. Few activists cannot decide that aspect,” he said.&nbsp;

The Kerala government meanwhile told the court that the judgment does not require a review. “Non-consideration of arguments is not a ground for review at all. There is no error apparent in the judgement. The petitioners are confused between essential practice of Sabarimala temple and essential practice of Hindu religion. The exclusion of women is not essential to the Hindu religion as women are allowed in other Ayyappa temples,” the counsel for the state of Kerala said.&nbsp;

He added that the state's social peace has been destroyed. “It is bandied about that courts cannot touch religion. Religious practices can be overruled when they overawe fundamental rights. Custom is subject to fundamental rights. Touchstone of our Constitution is that you will not discriminate or exclude.”&nbsp;

However, the hearing took an interesting turn when the Travancore Dewasom Board, which manages the temple's affairs, told the court that it respects the judgement of the Supreme Court and that it does not seek to file a review petition. It was then that Justice Indu Malhotra, the lone dissenting judge in the Sabarimala verdict, quizzed the board since it had earlier opposed the entry of women into the shrine.&nbsp;

A five-judge bench of India’s Supreme Court, headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi, began hearing Wednesday review petitions filed against its September 28 verdict last year that had allowed menstruating women to enter Sabarimala temple in the state of Kerala.

A five-judge bench of India’s Supreme Court, headed by CJI Ranjan Gogoi, began hearing Wednesday review petitions filed against its September 28 verdict last year that had allowed menstruating women to enter Sabarimala temple in the state of Kerala. There were 56 review petitions, four new writ petitions, and two special leave petitions listed before the court. The petitioners argued that their appeal was not against the Supreme Court's Sabarimala judgement but that the case involved fundamental rights guaranteed to every Indian citizen under article 25 of the Indian constitution (Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion). The petitioners told the court that there was an apparent error in its Sabarimala judgment — that Article 15(2) prohibited discrimination in access to public institutions of a secular category and not of a religious category. Lawyer K Parasaran submitted to the constitution bench that: “The judgement highlights the meaning given to untouchability under article 17 (Abolition of Untouchability: It is abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden. The enforcement of any disability arising out of Untouchability shall be an offence punishable in accordance with law). This will result in applying to only Hindu religious practices and institutions.” Justice Rohinton Nariman interrupted him, saying he had referred to article 15(2) in his judgement. “Please don’t be under the notion that it was struck down only on the basis of untouchability,” he told the senior lawyer. However, the counsel for the head priest of Sabarimala temple told the court that devotees had a fundamental right to worship inside temples in a manner which is in sync with the character of the deity. “Exclusion of women of menstrual age was not based on immorality, but on the essential religious practice that Sabarimala deity is a permanent celibate,” he said. Senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the former chairman of the Travancore Dewaswom Board, added that In Hinduism gods are worshipped in various forms and manifestations. “In Sabarimala, the deity is worshipped in this particular manner. Exclusion of menstruating women is not based on caste but the nature of the deity. Only Justice Indu Malhotra’s dissent judgment took into consideration the Bhramachari character of the deity being worshipped. The Court assumed that unless there is universality, a practise will not become an essential religious practise. In a diverse religion like Hinduism, one cannot look for universality. This test applied in the judgment is not correct,” he said. Senior lawyer Shekhar Naphre emphasised that the community did not accept the court's judgement. “The community can decide whether centuries-old belief should be changed or not. Few activists cannot decide that aspect,” he said. The Kerala government meanwhile told the court that the judgment does not require a review. “Non-consideration of arguments is not a ground for review at all. There is no error apparent in the judgement. The petitioners are confused between essential practice of Sabarimala temple and essential practice of Hindu religion. The exclusion of women is not essential to the Hindu religion as women are allowed in other Ayyappa temples,” the counsel for the state of Kerala said. He added that the state's social peace has been destroyed. “It is bandied about that courts cannot touch religion. Religious practices can be overruled when they overawe fundamental rights. Custom is subject to fundamental rights. Touchstone of our Constitution is that you will not discriminate or exclude.” However, the hearing took an interesting turn when the Travancore Dewasom Board, which manages the temple's affairs, told the court that it respects the judgement of the Supreme Court and that it does not seek to file a review petition. It was then that Justice Indu Malhotra, the lone dissenting judge in the Sabarimala verdict, quizzed the board since it had earlier opposed the entry of women into the shrine.

Sabarimala review petitions: Petitioners say appeal not against judgement but case involves fundamental rights

In a massive U-turn, the Travancore Dewasom Board, which runs Kerala's Sabarimala temple, told the Supreme Court Wednesday that it now supports <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanaka-durga-one-of-the-women-who-entered-sabarimala-temple-allegedly-thrashed-by-mother-in-law-190500">the court's September 28, 2018&nbsp;verdict allowing all women into the shrine</a>.

The board, which also has state government nominees on it, told a five-judge Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that it is high time a particular class not be discriminated on the ground of "biological attributes".&nbsp;

"Article 25 (1) equally entitles all persons to practice religion," senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the board, told the court.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court was on Wednesday hearing review&nbsp;petitions against its September 28 verdict.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Travancore Dewasom Board had earlier vehemently opposed the Supreme Court's verdict, saying that the celibate character of Sabarimala's presiding deity Lord Aiyappa, was a unique religious feature protected under the constitution.&nbsp;

Religious mythology says Aiyappa will only look at a woman when he is ready to marry her — which is why women of menstruating age were not allowed to enter the temple.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
TDB President A Padmakumar: Court had asked for Devaswom Board's opinion based on the verdict. Based on the verdict (September 28) we have decided not to file review petition. Devaswom Board accepts the SC verdict, we are of the opinion that there shouldn't be any discrimination. <a href="https://t.co/38gzm6tB0O">pic.twitter.com/38gzm6tB0O</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093106790642806784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Supreme Court's verdict had led to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/supreme-court-verdicts-on-sabarimala-and-rafale-are-blessings-for-bjp-189362">massive political mobilisation in the state by both the BJP and the Congress</a>, with Aiyappa devotees preventing the entry of women. Kerala's Left Front government led by Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan had said the Supreme Court verdict had to be enforced.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Dwivedi told the court that "women cannot be excluded from any walk of life on biological attributes... Equality is the dominant theme of the Constitution".

Dwivedi added that people should gracefully accept the Supreme Court verdict.

"The board respects the judgement of the court. Article 25 (1) of the Constitution equally entitles all citizens to practice religion," said senior lawyer Rakesh Dvivedi appearing for the Board.

On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the then CJI Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict had paved the way for entry of women of all ages into the shrine, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination.&nbsp;

The court on Wednesday reserved its verdict on the review petitions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

In a massive U-turn, the Travancore Dewasom Board, which runs Kerala's Sabarimala temple, told the Supreme Court Wednesday that it now supports the court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing all women into the shrine.

In a massive U-turn, the Travancore Dewasom Board, which runs Kerala's Sabarimala temple, told the Supreme Court Wednesday that it now supports the court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing all women into the shrine. The board, which also has state government nominees on it, told a five-judge Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that it is high time a particular class not be discriminated on the ground of "biological attributes". "Article 25 (1) equally entitles all persons to practice religion," senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the board, told the court. The Supreme Court was on Wednesday hearing review petitions against its September 28 verdict. The Travancore Dewasom Board had earlier vehemently opposed the Supreme Court's verdict, saying that the celibate character of Sabarimala's presiding deity Lord Aiyappa, was a unique religious feature protected under the constitution. Religious mythology says Aiyappa will only look at a woman when he is ready to marry her — which is why women of menstruating age were not allowed to enter the temple. TDB President A Padmakumar: Court had asked for Devaswom Board's opinion based on the verdict. Based on the verdict (September 28) we have decided not to file review petition. Devaswom Board accepts the SC verdict, we are of the opinion that there shouldn't be any discrimination. pic.twitter.com/38gzm6tB0O — ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2019 × The Supreme Court's verdict had led to massive political mobilisation in the state by both the BJP and the Congress, with Aiyappa devotees preventing the entry of women. Kerala's Left Front government led by Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan had said the Supreme Court verdict had to be enforced. On Wednesday, Dwivedi told the court that "women cannot be excluded from any walk of life on biological attributes... Equality is the dominant theme of the Constitution". Dwivedi added that people should gracefully accept the Supreme Court verdict. "The board respects the judgement of the court. Article 25 (1) of the Constitution equally entitles all citizens to practice religion," said senior lawyer Rakesh Dvivedi appearing for the Board. On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the then CJI Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict had paved the way for entry of women of all ages into the shrine, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination. The court on Wednesday reserved its verdict on the review petitions. (With inputs from PTI)

Sabarimala Board tells Supreme Court: Support your verdict, will allow entry of women into temple

The Kerala government Wednesday vehemently opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of petitions seeking review of the verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala shrine, even as several organisations argued that the judgement is reconsidered.

A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi was told by the counsel for the Kerala government that no ground was made out in any of the petitions seeking review of its September 28, 2018 verdict.

Several organisations including the Nair Service Society (NSS) and the Thantri of the shrine, have advanced arguments before the bench and sought reconsideration of the verdict.

The former attorney general and senior advocate K Parasaran, appearing for the NSS, assailed the majority verdict, saying Article 15 of the Constitution throws open for all public the secular institutions of the country but it doesn't deal with religious institutions.

The article "throws open all public institutions of secular character for all classes of citizens but the article conspicuously omits religious institutions", he told the bench.

Seeking reconsideration of the verdict, he said the article which deals with the abolition of untouchability in society was wrongly used by the apex court in its judgment as the exclusion of certain age groups of women was not based on caste.

The advocate also referred to the celibate character of the deity at Sabarimala and said the court should have considered this aspect.

Senior advocate Jaideep Gupta appearing for the Kerala government told the bench also comprising justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra that there was a consensus among the four judges who delivered the majority judgment on three aspects, i.E., Article 26, 25 (2) and rule 3 (b) of the Kerala Act.

Gupta said in none of the review petitions questions have been raised regarding these three points and therefore other aspects "raised in the review petition will make no difference".

The arguments by those who have filed the review petition that certain submissions were not considered in the judgment or were not advanced is not a ground for re-examining the verdict, the advocate.

He said many of those who have sought a re-look of the judgment has not come out with valid legal points but have merely analysed the verdict by the way of a review petition and the court should not entertain them.

Another senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, also appearing for the Kerala government said a case cannot be allowed to be reopened by way of the review petition.

The state government said there is a distinction between the essential practice of a temple and the essential practice of the religion. If this essential practice test is applied temple wise then the purpose would be defeated, it said.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Travancore Devaswom Board's ex-chairperson, favoured submissions seeking review of the judgment.

"There is no exclusion of women. There is no exclusion of men. There is no exclusion of a class of men or women based on religion and caste. There is an exclusion inside a class (women). Hence Article 17 (removal of untouchability) under the Constitution will not apply," Singhvi said.

Dealing with the aspect of constitutional morality, the senior lawyer said that in a pluralistic diverse Hindu society this concept cannot be applied objectively by the court and it has to be subjective keeping in mind different kind of essential religious practices of Hindu religion.

Senior lawyer Shekhar Naphade, also appearing for a party in the case, said in a matter of faith, the court cannot direct a community to practice the religion in a particular manner.

"This is an internal affair of a religious community which worships a particular deity in a particular manner. This has never been in dispute that this practice is being followed for centuries.

"The court cannot issue a writ of mandamus against a community to practice its religion in a particular manner," Naphade said adding that this practice was an essential religious practice which cannot be scrutinised by the court.

He said that any religious practice cannot be stopped unless it constituted a criminal offence.

The Kerala government Wednesday vehemently opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of petitions seeking review of the verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala shrine, even as several organisations argued that the judgement is reconsidered.

The Kerala government Wednesday vehemently opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of petitions seeking review of the verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala shrine, even as several organisations argued that the judgement is reconsidered. A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi was told by the counsel for the Kerala government that no ground was made out in any of the petitions seeking review of its September 28, 2018 verdict. Several organisations including the Nair Service Society (NSS) and the Thantri of the shrine, have advanced arguments before the bench and sought reconsideration of the verdict. The former attorney general and senior advocate K Parasaran, appearing for the NSS, assailed the majority verdict, saying Article 15 of the Constitution throws open for all public the secular institutions of the country but it doesn't deal with religious institutions. The article "throws open all public institutions of secular character for all classes of citizens but the article conspicuously omits religious institutions", he told the bench. Seeking reconsideration of the verdict, he said the article which deals with the abolition of untouchability in society was wrongly used by the apex court in its judgment as the exclusion of certain age groups of women was not based on caste. The advocate also referred to the celibate character of the deity at Sabarimala and said the court should have considered this aspect. Senior advocate Jaideep Gupta appearing for the Kerala government told the bench also comprising justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra that there was a consensus among the four judges who delivered the majority judgment on three aspects, i.E., Article 26, 25 (2) and rule 3 (b) of the Kerala Act. Gupta said in none of the review petitions questions have been raised regarding these three points and therefore other aspects "raised in the review petition will make no difference". The arguments by those who have filed the review petition that certain submissions were not considered in the judgment or were not advanced is not a ground for re-examining the verdict, the advocate. He said many of those who have sought a re-look of the judgment has not come out with valid legal points but have merely analysed the verdict by the way of a review petition and the court should not entertain them. Another senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, also appearing for the Kerala government said a case cannot be allowed to be reopened by way of the review petition. The state government said there is a distinction between the essential practice of a temple and the essential practice of the religion. If this essential practice test is applied temple wise then the purpose would be defeated, it said. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Travancore Devaswom Board's ex-chairperson, favoured submissions seeking review of the judgment. "There is no exclusion of women. There is no exclusion of men. There is no exclusion of a class of men or women based on religion and caste. There is an exclusion inside a class (women). Hence Article 17 (removal of untouchability) under the Constitution will not apply," Singhvi said. Dealing with the aspect of constitutional morality, the senior lawyer said that in a pluralistic diverse Hindu society this concept cannot be applied objectively by the court and it has to be subjective keeping in mind different kind of essential religious practices of Hindu religion. Senior lawyer Shekhar Naphade, also appearing for a party in the case, said in a matter of faith, the court cannot direct a community to practice the religion in a particular manner. "This is an internal affair of a religious community which worships a particular deity in a particular manner. This has never been in dispute that this practice is being followed for centuries. "The court cannot issue a writ of mandamus against a community to practice its religion in a particular manner," Naphade said adding that this practice was an essential religious practice which cannot be scrutinised by the court. He said that any religious practice cannot be stopped unless it constituted a criminal offence.

Kerala government opposes pleas seeking review of Supreme Court's Sabarimala verdict 

Days after courting controversy over a list of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-case-kerala-govt-says-51-women-have-entered-sabarimala-temple-191271">51 women who had entered the Sabarimala temple</a>, the Kerala government Monday said only two women of menstrual age had visited the shrine after a Supreme Court's judgement removed the bar on their entry.

In a written reply in the state assembly, the government also said the visit of a Sri Lankan woman in early January was yet to be confirmed.

Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran, in response to an unstarred question, said two women had offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa shrine according to the report of the temple executive officer.

He also said they were awaiting confirmation on whether Sasikala, the 47-year-old Sri Lankan woman whose visit was earlier confirmed by sources in the Chief Minister's Office and police, visited the hill shrine.

Surendran was replying to a question by opposition Congress legislators on how many women in the age group of 10-50 years had offered prayers at the temple after the September 28 apex court verdict.

The CPI(M)-led state government had filed an affidavit in the apex court on January 18, saying 51 young women had entered the temple during the recently concluded annual pilgrim season.

However, controversy erupted later as some women who were named in the list were above 50 years of age. Names of at least two men had also crept into the list.

In response to another question, Surendran said the authority to take a decision on matters related to the shrine's customs and traditions was not entrusted with the temple's 'tantri' (head priest) alone.

According to the Devaswom Manual, if any violation of traditional customs occurs, it is for the officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to hold talks with the head priest and take a final decision on atonement rituals, he added.

Last month, the head priest, Kandaru Rajeevaru, had closed the sanctum sanctorum of the shrine to perform a 'purification' ceremony after two women offered worship at the temple.

The TDB, the apex temple body in Kerala, has sought an explanation from him.

The annual pilgrimage season witnessed widespread protests from frenzied devotees and right-wing groups over the LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme Court's verdict, allowing women of all ages to enter the hilltop shrine.

During the season, over two dozen women devotees, some of whom were branded as activists, unsuccessfully attempted to trek the hill.

However, on January 2, two women, Kanakadurga (44) and Bindhu (42), offered prayers at the shrine, breaking a centuries-old tradition.

Before the Supreme Court's verdict, women in the age group of 10 to 50 years were not allowed to enter the temple as the presiding deity, Lord Ayyappa, is a "Naishtika Brahmachari" (perennial celibate).&nbsp;

Days after courting controversy over a list of 51 women who had entered the Sabarimala temple, the Kerala government Monday said only two women of menstrual age had visited the shrine after a Supreme Court's judgement removed the bar on their entry.

Days after courting controversy over a list of 51 women who had entered the Sabarimala temple, the Kerala government Monday said only two women of menstrual age had visited the shrine after a Supreme Court's judgement removed the bar on their entry. In a written reply in the state assembly, the government also said the visit of a Sri Lankan woman in early January was yet to be confirmed. Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran, in response to an unstarred question, said two women had offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa shrine according to the report of the temple executive officer. He also said they were awaiting confirmation on whether Sasikala, the 47-year-old Sri Lankan woman whose visit was earlier confirmed by sources in the Chief Minister's Office and police, visited the hill shrine. Surendran was replying to a question by opposition Congress legislators on how many women in the age group of 10-50 years had offered prayers at the temple after the September 28 apex court verdict. The CPI(M)-led state government had filed an affidavit in the apex court on January 18, saying 51 young women had entered the temple during the recently concluded annual pilgrim season. However, controversy erupted later as some women who were named in the list were above 50 years of age. Names of at least two men had also crept into the list. In response to another question, Surendran said the authority to take a decision on matters related to the shrine's customs and traditions was not entrusted with the temple's 'tantri' (head priest) alone. According to the Devaswom Manual, if any violation of traditional customs occurs, it is for the officials of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to hold talks with the head priest and take a final decision on atonement rituals, he added. Last month, the head priest, Kandaru Rajeevaru, had closed the sanctum sanctorum of the shrine to perform a 'purification' ceremony after two women offered worship at the temple. The TDB, the apex temple body in Kerala, has sought an explanation from him. The annual pilgrimage season witnessed widespread protests from frenzied devotees and right-wing groups over the LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme Court's verdict, allowing women of all ages to enter the hilltop shrine. During the season, over two dozen women devotees, some of whom were branded as activists, unsuccessfully attempted to trek the hill. However, on January 2, two women, Kanakadurga (44) and Bindhu (42), offered prayers at the shrine, breaking a centuries-old tradition. Before the Supreme Court's verdict, women in the age group of 10 to 50 years were not allowed to enter the temple as the presiding deity, Lord Ayyappa, is a "Naishtika Brahmachari" (perennial celibate).

Only 2 women visited Sabarimala: Kerala minister tells Assembly

The Supreme Court Tuesday said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the Sabarimala verdict, allowing women of all age groups to enter the temple, till January 30 as one of the judges is on medical leave.

On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution Bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict had paved the way for entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that Justice Indu Malhotra, the lone woman judge of the five-judge constitution bench which delivered the verdict allowing all women inside the Sabarimala temple, is on leave till January 30 "due to some medical reasons".

Justice Malhotra had delivered the dissenting judgement in the case.&nbsp;

Lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara, appearing for the National Ayyappa Devotees' Association (NADA), mentioned the matter before the bench, which also comprised Justices L Nageswara Rao and Sanjiv Khanna, and sought an urgent listing for hearing the pleas seeking review of the verdict.

The court said that the next date of hearing would be fixed only after Justice Malhotra rejoins.&nbsp;

A five-judge Constitution bench comprising the CJI, Justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Justice Malhotra was scheduled to hear in open court the review petitions from today.&nbsp;

Earlier also, the court had said that it may not start the hearing from January 22 as Justice Malhotra would not be available.&nbsp;

The remarks had come when Nedumpara on January 15 had mentioned the plea and had sought live streaming of the proceedings in the Sabarimala case. 
NADA had sought live streaming of the hearing saying it would ensure that "justice is made accessible to the common man".

Prior to this, the apex court had decided to hear in open court the review petitions against the verdict.&nbsp;

There are around 48 petitions seeking review of the judgement and they were filed following the violent protests in favour and against the verdict.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Tuesday said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the Sabarimala verdict, allowing women of all age groups to enter the temple, till January 30 as one of the judges is on medical leave.

The Supreme Court Tuesday said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the Sabarimala verdict, allowing women of all age groups to enter the temple, till January 30 as one of the judges is on medical leave. On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution Bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict had paved the way for entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that Justice Indu Malhotra, the lone woman judge of the five-judge constitution bench which delivered the verdict allowing all women inside the Sabarimala temple, is on leave till January 30 "due to some medical reasons". Justice Malhotra had delivered the dissenting judgement in the case. Lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara, appearing for the National Ayyappa Devotees' Association (NADA), mentioned the matter before the bench, which also comprised Justices L Nageswara Rao and Sanjiv Khanna, and sought an urgent listing for hearing the pleas seeking review of the verdict. The court said that the next date of hearing would be fixed only after Justice Malhotra rejoins. A five-judge Constitution bench comprising the CJI, Justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Justice Malhotra was scheduled to hear in open court the review petitions from today. Earlier also, the court had said that it may not start the hearing from January 22 as Justice Malhotra would not be available. The remarks had come when Nedumpara on January 15 had mentioned the plea and had sought live streaming of the proceedings in the Sabarimala case. NADA had sought live streaming of the hearing saying it would ensure that "justice is made accessible to the common man". Prior to this, the apex court had decided to hear in open court the review petitions against the verdict. There are around 48 petitions seeking review of the judgement and they were filed following the violent protests in favour and against the verdict.

May not start hearing Sabarimala case till January 30 as Justice Malhotra on leave: Supreme Court

Kanaka Durga, one of the two women who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month, has reportedly been denied entry into her in-law's house and has now taken shelter in a government shelter home.&nbsp;

According to media reports, Durga, who was being treated at Calicut medical hospital after she was allegedly beaten up by her mother-in-law for defying the Sabarimala temple ban, was not allowed into her husband's house on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Kanaka Durga was forced to take shelter at a One Stop centre here after she found that her house was locked and her family members had shifted to another building, the local police said.

A police official said Durga filed a petition in a court in Perinthalmanna under the Domestic Violence Act, stating she had the right to stay at her husband's home, news agency PTI reported.

Police sources said Durga went to her husband's house when she was discharged from the Kozhikode medical college, where she was treated after allegedly being assaulted by her mother-in-law for entering the temple. When she reached there, she found the house locked, the sources said.

Her husband and other relatives had shifted to a rented building, the police said, adding Kanakadurga then took refugee at the One Stop Centre, PTI reported.&nbsp;

On January 15, it was reported that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanaka-durga-one-of-the-women-who-entered-sabarimala-temple-allegedly-thrashed-by-mother-in-law-190500">Durga, a civil servant</a>, suffered injuries to her head and was hospitalised after being beaten up by her mother-in-law.&nbsp;

Durga claimed she was attacked only minutes after she returned home. She had before that spent a month at undisclosed locations fearing attacks by groups who support Sabarimala temple ban, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Durga, a civil supplies employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, had come to Sabarimala on December 24 after 11 women activists of a Chennai-based outfit were prevented from reaching the shrine and chased away by devotees chanting Ayyappa mantras.

The temple was opened on December 30 for the Makaravillaku festival and there has been a heavy rush of pilgrims.

According to reports, the women trekked to the hill shrine on January 2. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am.

Kanaka Durga, one of the two women who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month, has reportedly been denied entry into her in-law's house and has now taken shelter in a government shelter home.

Kanaka Durga, one of the two women who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month, has reportedly been denied entry into her in-law's house and has now taken shelter in a government shelter home. According to media reports, Durga, who was being treated at Calicut medical hospital after she was allegedly beaten up by her mother-in-law for defying the Sabarimala temple ban, was not allowed into her husband's house on Tuesday. Kanaka Durga was forced to take shelter at a One Stop centre here after she found that her house was locked and her family members had shifted to another building, the local police said. A police official said Durga filed a petition in a court in Perinthalmanna under the Domestic Violence Act, stating she had the right to stay at her husband's home, news agency PTI reported. Police sources said Durga went to her husband's house when she was discharged from the Kozhikode medical college, where she was treated after allegedly being assaulted by her mother-in-law for entering the temple. When she reached there, she found the house locked, the sources said. Her husband and other relatives had shifted to a rented building, the police said, adding Kanakadurga then took refugee at the One Stop Centre, PTI reported. On January 15, it was reported that Durga, a civil servant, suffered injuries to her head and was hospitalised after being beaten up by her mother-in-law. Durga claimed she was attacked only minutes after she returned home. She had before that spent a month at undisclosed locations fearing attacks by groups who support Sabarimala temple ban, news agency Reuters reported. Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Durga, a civil supplies employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, had come to Sabarimala on December 24 after 11 women activists of a Chennai-based outfit were prevented from reaching the shrine and chased away by devotees chanting Ayyappa mantras. The temple was opened on December 30 for the Makaravillaku festival and there has been a heavy rush of pilgrims. According to reports, the women trekked to the hill shrine on January 2. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am.

Woman who entered Sabarimala barred from home, is now living in govt shelter

The Supreme Court directed the Kerala Police on Friday to provide round-the-clock security to two women who had entered the Sabarimala temple.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and justices L N Rao and Dinesh Maheshwari said it was only going into the aspect of the security of the two women and would not like to entertain any other prayer made in the petition.

The bench also refused to tag the matter along with the pending petitions in the Sabarimala case.

It was hearing the petitions of 42-year-old Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Kanakadurga, 44, a civil supplies department employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, who had entered the Sabarimala shrine on January 2.

"We deem it appropriate to entertain this writ petition by directing the Kerala Police to provide adequate security round the clock to petitioner number 1 (Bindu) and petitioner 2 (<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanaka-durga-one-of-the-women-who-entered-sabarimala-temple-allegedly-thrashed-by-mother-in-law-190500">Kanakdurga</a>). Beyond that we don't want to go into any of the issues mentioned in the petition," the bench said.

Senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, appearing for the Kerala government, said it was already providing adequate security to these women and other devotees who have entered the Sabarimala temple. He said till now 51 female devotees have entered the shrine.

Advocate Mathews J Nedumpara appearing for some petitioners, who have filed a review plea challenging the decision of the top court to allow women of all ages to enter the temple, said that none of the female devotees has entered the Sabarimala shrine.

The bench, however, refused to go into all these issues and said that if the Kerala government was already providing security to the female devotees without the court's order then there is no harm if the government continues providing adequate security even after the court's order.

Senior advocate Indira Jaising, appearing for the women petitioners, said the court should direct tagging of the petitions with the pending matters on the Sabarimala temple issue.

To this, the bench said the prayer for tagging is rejected.

Earlier this month, the two women had stepped into the hallowed precincts guarded by the police, more than three months after the apex court's historic judgment lifting the ban on the entry of girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age into the shrine of Lord Ayyappa, its "eternally celibate" deity.

Following the entry of the women into the shrine, the chief priest had decided to close the sanctum sanctorum of the temple to perform the 'purification' ceremony.

The plea had sought round-the-clock security to both the women due to a threat to their life for entering into the hilltop shrine as one of the women was assaulted by her mother-in-law.

The plea had sought directions declaring all authorities not to conduct the rite of purification or to shut the temple on account of any woman of the age of 10-50 having entered the temple.

It had said that the purification ritual is representative of a cleansing ceremony, signifying the petitioners were impure, which is violative of their dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The petition also sought directions declaring that any form of prevention of women aged between 10 and 50 years from visiting the hilltop shrine is contrary to the September 28, 2018 judgment of the apex court.

On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict paved the way the for entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination.

The top court has said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the Sabarimala verdict from January 22 as one of the judges was on medical leave.

Earlier, the apex court had decided to hear in open court the review petitions against the verdict. Besides Justice Indu Malhotra and the CJI, justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud are part of the five-judge constitution bench.

Justice Malhotra had delivered the dissenting judgment in the case.

There are around 48 petitions seeking review of the judgment and they were filed following violent protests in favour and against the verdict. PTI MNL&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Supreme Court directed the Kerala Police on Friday to provide round-the-clock security to two women who had entered the Sabarimala temple. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and justices L N Rao and Dinesh Maheshwari said it was only going into the aspect of the security of the two women and would not like to entertain any other prayer made in the petition.

The Supreme Court directed the Kerala Police on Friday to provide round-the-clock security to two women who had entered the Sabarimala temple. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and justices L N Rao and Dinesh Maheshwari said it was only going into the aspect of the security of the two women and would not like to entertain any other prayer made in the petition. The bench also refused to tag the matter along with the pending petitions in the Sabarimala case. It was hearing the petitions of 42-year-old Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Kanakadurga, 44, a civil supplies department employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, who had entered the Sabarimala shrine on January 2. "We deem it appropriate to entertain this writ petition by directing the Kerala Police to provide adequate security round the clock to petitioner number 1 (Bindu) and petitioner 2 (Kanakdurga). Beyond that we don't want to go into any of the issues mentioned in the petition," the bench said. Senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, appearing for the Kerala government, said it was already providing adequate security to these women and other devotees who have entered the Sabarimala temple. He said till now 51 female devotees have entered the shrine. Advocate Mathews J Nedumpara appearing for some petitioners, who have filed a review plea challenging the decision of the top court to allow women of all ages to enter the temple, said that none of the female devotees has entered the Sabarimala shrine. The bench, however, refused to go into all these issues and said that if the Kerala government was already providing security to the female devotees without the court's order then there is no harm if the government continues providing adequate security even after the court's order. Senior advocate Indira Jaising, appearing for the women petitioners, said the court should direct tagging of the petitions with the pending matters on the Sabarimala temple issue. To this, the bench said the prayer for tagging is rejected. Earlier this month, the two women had stepped into the hallowed precincts guarded by the police, more than three months after the apex court's historic judgment lifting the ban on the entry of girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age into the shrine of Lord Ayyappa, its "eternally celibate" deity. Following the entry of the women into the shrine, the chief priest had decided to close the sanctum sanctorum of the temple to perform the 'purification' ceremony. The plea had sought round-the-clock security to both the women due to a threat to their life for entering into the hilltop shrine as one of the women was assaulted by her mother-in-law. The plea had sought directions declaring all authorities not to conduct the rite of purification or to shut the temple on account of any woman of the age of 10-50 having entered the temple. It had said that the purification ritual is representative of a cleansing ceremony, signifying the petitioners were impure, which is violative of their dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution. The petition also sought directions declaring that any form of prevention of women aged between 10 and 50 years from visiting the hilltop shrine is contrary to the September 28, 2018 judgment of the apex court. On September 28 last year, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict paved the way the for entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination. The top court has said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the Sabarimala verdict from January 22 as one of the judges was on medical leave. Earlier, the apex court had decided to hear in open court the review petitions against the verdict. Besides Justice Indu Malhotra and the CJI, justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud are part of the five-judge constitution bench. Justice Malhotra had delivered the dissenting judgment in the case. There are around 48 petitions seeking review of the judgment and they were filed following violent protests in favour and against the verdict. PTI MNL

Give round-the-clock security to 2 women who entered Sabarimala: Supreme Court to Kerala police

Clashes erupted near the Sabarimala temple in Kerala again on Wednesday morning as two women made an unsuccessful <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-independent-mlas-withdraw-support-to-kumaraswamy-govt-in-karnataka-190609">attempt to trek up to the hill shrine</a>.

The women, below 50 years of age, attempted to climb the hill and offer prayers in the temple at around 4 am.

Dressed&nbsp;as men, the women were accompanied by police personnel and had managed to cross the base camp.

They were however identified by male pilgrims at the temple who started protesting against their entry into the temple.

The protest escalated after over hundreds of others joined.

Thereafter the police along with the two women had to retreat.

The temple had witnessed protests from frenzied devotees over the entry of women in the 10-50 age group in the shrine after the CPI(M)-led LDF government decided to implement a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-un-encourages-all-to-respect-rule-of-law-says-antonio-guterres-spokesperson-188383">Supreme Court order</a> allowing women of all age to offer prayers there.

The main opposition Congress-led UDF and the BJP has been opposing the entry of young women, saying they are with the devotees.

Two&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-first-after-supreme-court-verdict-2-women-below-50-enter-sabarimala-temple-187812">women in their 40s entered Sabarimala temple</a>&nbsp;earlier this month and offered prayers at the main shrine.

Kanaka Durga, one of the two women who had entered the temple, has alleged that she was thrashed by her mother-in-law for defying the ban. &nbsp;

Durga, 39, a civil servant, suffered injuries to her head and had to be hospitalised, police said.

According to reports, the women trekked to the hill shrine on January 2. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am.

&nbsp;

Clashes erupted near the Sabarimala temple in Kerala again on Wednesday morning as two women made an unsuccessful attempt to trek up to the hill shrine. The women, below 50 years of age, attempted to climb the hill and offer prayers in the temple at around 4 am.

Clashes erupted near the Sabarimala temple in Kerala again on Wednesday morning as two women made an unsuccessful attempt to trek up to the hill shrine. The women, below 50 years of age, attempted to climb the hill and offer prayers in the temple at around 4 am. Dressed as men, the women were accompanied by police personnel and had managed to cross the base camp. They were however identified by male pilgrims at the temple who started protesting against their entry into the temple. The protest escalated after over hundreds of others joined. Thereafter the police along with the two women had to retreat. The temple had witnessed protests from frenzied devotees over the entry of women in the 10-50 age group in the shrine after the CPI(M)-led LDF government decided to implement a Supreme Court order allowing women of all age to offer prayers there. The main opposition Congress-led UDF and the BJP has been opposing the entry of young women, saying they are with the devotees. Two women in their 40s entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month and offered prayers at the main shrine. Kanaka Durga, one of the two women who had entered the temple, has alleged that she was thrashed by her mother-in-law for defying the ban. Durga, 39, a civil servant, suffered injuries to her head and had to be hospitalised, police said. According to reports, the women trekked to the hill shrine on January 2. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am.

Protest breaks out at Sabarimala after 2 women try to enter temple

Kanaka Durga, one of the two women <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-kerala-cm-confirms-entry-of-2-women-tdp-board-denies-temple-shut-for-purification-187821">who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month</a>, has alleged that she was thrashed by her mother-in-law for defying the ban. &nbsp;

Durga, 39, a civil servant, suffered injuries to her head and had to be hospitalised, police said.

She claims she was attacked only minutes after she returned home. She had before that spent a month at undisclosed locations fearing attacks by conservative Hindu groups, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Kerala: Kanaka Durga, who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month, has complained to Perinthalmanna police alleging that she has been thrashed by her mother-in-law. Case has been registered.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085100513228713984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We received a complaint from Kanaka Durga alleging that she was attacked by family members of her husband when she returned home after entering the temple," said Jaya Mani, the officer in charge of Perinthalmanna police station in Malappuram district.

Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Durga, a civil supplies employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, had come to Sabarimala on December 24 after 11 women activists of a Chennai-based outfit were prevented from reaching the shrine and chased away by devotees chanting Ayyappa mantras.

The temple was opened on December 30 for the Makaravillaku festival and there has been a heavy rush of pilgrims.

According to reports, the women trekked to the hill shrine on January 2. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am.

The incident was confirmed by Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Speaking to media CM Vijayan said, "Today, two women entered Sabarimala temple. We had issued standing orders to police to provide all possible protection to any woman who wants to enter the temple."

(With inputs from agencies)

Kanaka Durga, one of the two women who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month, has alleged that she was thrashed by her mother-in-law for defying the ban.

Kanaka Durga, one of the two women who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month, has alleged that she was thrashed by her mother-in-law for defying the ban. Durga, 39, a civil servant, suffered injuries to her head and had to be hospitalised, police said. She claims she was attacked only minutes after she returned home. She had before that spent a month at undisclosed locations fearing attacks by conservative Hindu groups, news agency Reuters reported. Kerala: Kanaka Durga, who had entered Sabarimala temple earlier this month, has complained to Perinthalmanna police alleging that she has been thrashed by her mother-in-law. Case has been registered. — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × "We received a complaint from Kanaka Durga alleging that she was attacked by family members of her husband when she returned home after entering the temple," said Jaya Mani, the officer in charge of Perinthalmanna police station in Malappuram district. Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Durga, a civil supplies employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, had come to Sabarimala on December 24 after 11 women activists of a Chennai-based outfit were prevented from reaching the shrine and chased away by devotees chanting Ayyappa mantras. The temple was opened on December 30 for the Makaravillaku festival and there has been a heavy rush of pilgrims. According to reports, the women trekked to the hill shrine on January 2. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am. The incident was confirmed by Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Speaking to media CM Vijayan said, "Today, two women entered Sabarimala temple. We had issued standing orders to police to provide all possible protection to any woman who wants to enter the temple." (With inputs from agencies)

One of 2 women who entered Sabarimala temple allegedly thrashed by mother-in-law, hospitalised

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanaka-durga-one-of-the-women-who-entered-sabarimala-temple-allegedly-thrashed-by-mother-in-law-190500">the Sabarimala issue</a> will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history. Modi was speaking in Kollam, Kerala.&nbsp;

"The conduct of Kerala LDF government on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party and government. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred," Modi said.&nbsp;

Modi added that the Congress was "no better".&nbsp;

"UDF is no better. Congress has multiple stands — they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta," he said.&nbsp;

"Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words," he added.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court decreed in September 2018 that women should be allowed to visit Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The temple had until then been off-limits to women between the ages of 10 and 50.&nbsp;

The reason for the ban is that it is believed that the temple deity, Lord Ayappa, has vowed to stay celibate. And that he will look at a woman only when he is ready to marry her.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court decree was met by massive resistance, with both the BJP and Congress mobilising people against it.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan on the other hand has said repeatedly that the Supreme Court order has to be enforced.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Modi said the Left and Congress work against gender and social justice.&nbsp;

"Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite. NDA Government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq," Modi said.&nbsp;

"Who is opposing us on this?" he asked. "Communists and the Congress," he answered.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM in Kollam, Kerala: UDF and LDF are different in name but in neglecting Kerala's yuva shakti, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in ignoring the poor, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in cheating the people of Kerala, they are same. <a href="https://t.co/bbNuse17uV">pic.twitter.com/bbNuse17uV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085159187427065856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM Modi in Kerala: UDF &amp; LDF are two sides of the same old coin. Different in name, but in corruption, casteism &amp; communalism, they are same. Different in name, but in damaging Kerala's cultural fabric, they are same. Different in name, but in political violence, they are same. <a href="https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW">https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085159459301789697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Modi on Tuesday also referred to his government's recent 10% quota for the upper castes saying his government believed every Indian, irrespective of caste, deserved "equal opportunity".&nbsp;

And he mentioned India's upward movement in the ease of doing business rankings.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back did anyone think that India could be the fastest growing economy? In 4 years, we have made the transition from being one of the fragile five nations to the fastest growing economy. <a href="https://t.co/MxAktXE7s0">pic.twitter.com/MxAktXE7s0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085153663214063616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In 4 years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world. <a href="https://t.co/VlHfXxAp8h">pic.twitter.com/VlHfXxAp8h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085154379580301312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in the Sabarimala issue will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in the Sabarimala issue will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history. Modi was speaking in Kollam, Kerala. "The conduct of Kerala LDF government on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party and government. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred," Modi said. Modi added that the Congress was "no better". "UDF is no better. Congress has multiple stands — they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta," he said. "Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words," he added. The Supreme Court decreed in September 2018 that women should be allowed to visit Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The temple had until then been off-limits to women between the ages of 10 and 50. The reason for the ban is that it is believed that the temple deity, Lord Ayappa, has vowed to stay celibate. And that he will look at a woman only when he is ready to marry her. The Supreme Court decree was met by massive resistance, with both the BJP and Congress mobilising people against it. Kerala Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan on the other hand has said repeatedly that the Supreme Court order has to be enforced. On Tuesday, Modi said the Left and Congress work against gender and social justice. "Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite. NDA Government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq," Modi said. "Who is opposing us on this?" he asked. "Communists and the Congress," he answered. PM in Kollam, Kerala: UDF and LDF are different in name but in neglecting Kerala's yuva shakti, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in ignoring the poor, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in cheating the people of Kerala, they are same. pic.twitter.com/bbNuse17uV — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × PM Modi in Kerala: UDF & LDF are two sides of the same old coin. Different in name, but in corruption, casteism & communalism, they are same. Different in name, but in damaging Kerala's cultural fabric, they are same. Different in name, but in political violence, they are same. https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × Modi on Tuesday also referred to his government's recent 10% quota for the upper castes saying his government believed every Indian, irrespective of caste, deserved "equal opportunity". And he mentioned India's upward movement in the ease of doing business rankings. PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back did anyone think that India could be the fastest growing economy? In 4 years, we have made the transition from being one of the fragile five nations to the fastest growing economy. pic.twitter.com/MxAktXE7s0 — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In 4 years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world. pic.twitter.com/VlHfXxAp8h — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 ×

Conduct of Kerala govt on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as 'most shameful': Modi

The Russian Premier League is set to restart on June 21, the country’s football association announced on Friday. The Russian Premier League, like every other major European league, was postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has disrupted the entire sporting calendar.

"The Russian Premier League season will resume on June 21," a statement said following a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Russian football association.

The final eight games of the remainder of the season will be played between June 21 to July 22 with four of the scheduled round of matches taking place in the midweek.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-accepts-risk-of-possible-la-liga-return-298869" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi accepts 'risk' of possible La Liga return</a>

Matches will be played behind closed doors without spectators with the new rules of five substitutions coming into play in every match.&nbsp;

Along with Russian Premier League, the Olympic Russian Cup is also set for a restart with the final scheduled to take place on July 25.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-sport-edges-back-from-virus-shutdown-with-golf-auto-events-298814" hreflang="en">US sport edges back from virus shutdown with golf, auto events</a>

As things stand, Russia are atop the league standings with 50 points off 22 matches whereas Lokomotiv Moscow are second with 41 points to their name. Krasnodar are sitting third with 41 points with FK Rostov and CSKA Moscow sitting fifth and sixth respectively. Orenburg, Rubin Kazan, FK Krylya Sovetov Samara and Akhmat Grozny are involved in a tight relegation battle, and it would be interesting to see how things pan out once the league is brought back to life again.

<h2>The preliminary fixture schedule</h2>

23rd round: 21 June

Cup QF: 24 June

24th round: 28 June

25th round: 1 July

26th round: 5 July

27th round: 8 July

28th round: 12 July

29th round: 15 July

Cup SF: 18-19 July

30th round: 22 July

Cup Final: 25 July 25

The Russian Premier League is set to restart on June 21, the country’s football association announced on Friday. The Russian Premier League, like every other major European league, was postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has disrupted the entire sporting calendar.

The Russian Premier League is set to restart on June 21, the country’s football association announced on Friday. The Russian Premier League, like every other major European league, was postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has disrupted the entire sporting calendar. "The Russian Premier League season will resume on June 21," a statement said following a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Russian football association. The final eight games of the remainder of the season will be played between June 21 to July 22 with four of the scheduled round of matches taking place in the midweek. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi accepts 'risk' of possible La Liga return Matches will be played behind closed doors without spectators with the new rules of five substitutions coming into play in every match. Along with Russian Premier League, the Olympic Russian Cup is also set for a restart with the final scheduled to take place on July 25. ALSO READ: US sport edges back from virus shutdown with golf, auto events As things stand, Russia are atop the league standings with 50 points off 22 matches whereas Lokomotiv Moscow are second with 41 points to their name. Krasnodar are sitting third with 41 points with FK Rostov and CSKA Moscow sitting fifth and sixth respectively. Orenburg, Rubin Kazan, FK Krylya Sovetov Samara and Akhmat Grozny are involved in a tight relegation battle, and it would be interesting to see how things pan out once the league is brought back to life again. The preliminary fixture schedule 23rd round: 21 June Cup QF: 24 June 24th round: 28 June 25th round: 1 July 26th round: 5 July 27th round: 8 July 28th round: 12 July 29th round: 15 July Cup SF: 18-19 July 30th round: 22 July Cup Final: 25 July 25

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-un-encourages-all-to-respect-rule-of-law-says-antonio-guterres-spokesperson-188383&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjbjNCdre_fAhUiTY8KHaS-Dus4FBAWCAgwAQ&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0WgfWvL7LDftKG4MS7RdIn">Sabarimala</a> verdict from January 22 as one of the judges is on medical leave.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said Justice Indu Malhotra, the lone woman judge of the five-judge constitution bench which delivered the verdict allowing all women inside the Sabarimala temple, is on leave "due to some medical reasons".

The bench, which also comprised Justices L Nageswara Rao and S K Kaul, said the hearing, which is scheduled to start from January 22, may not take place.

The observation came after lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara mentioned the petition filed by the National Ayyappa Devotees' Association (NADA) and sought live streaming of the hearing on the petitions seeking review of the apex court's verdict on January 22.

NADA asked for live streaming and video recording of the court proceedings during the hearing of the review petitions so "justice is made accessible to common man".

If the proceedings are allowed to be telecast, millions of devotees of Lord Ayyappa, not merely in Kerala, but all over the world, will have the opportunity to hear and watch what transpired in the court, it said.

"There cannot be an issue of greater importance of public interest or concern than the Sabarimala case. Video recording of the said case would mean the entire proceeding thereof being perpetually available for posterity," the petition said.

On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the&nbsp;then chief justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict paved the way for the entry of women of all ages into the temple, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination.

The temple in Kerala has been witnessing violent protests since the verdict.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the Sabarimala verdict from January 22 as one of the judges is on medical leave.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it may not start hearing pleas seeking a review of the Sabarimala verdict from January 22 as one of the judges is on medical leave. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said Justice Indu Malhotra, the lone woman judge of the five-judge constitution bench which delivered the verdict allowing all women inside the Sabarimala temple, is on leave "due to some medical reasons". The bench, which also comprised Justices L Nageswara Rao and S K Kaul, said the hearing, which is scheduled to start from January 22, may not take place. The observation came after lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara mentioned the petition filed by the National Ayyappa Devotees' Association (NADA) and sought live streaming of the hearing on the petitions seeking review of the apex court's verdict on January 22. NADA asked for live streaming and video recording of the court proceedings during the hearing of the review petitions so "justice is made accessible to common man". If the proceedings are allowed to be telecast, millions of devotees of Lord Ayyappa, not merely in Kerala, but all over the world, will have the opportunity to hear and watch what transpired in the court, it said. "There cannot be an issue of greater importance of public interest or concern than the Sabarimala case. Video recording of the said case would mean the entire proceeding thereof being perpetually available for posterity," the petition said. On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the then chief justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict paved the way for the entry of women of all ages into the temple, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination. The temple in Kerala has been witnessing violent protests since the verdict.

Judge on medical leave, Supreme Court may not start hearing Sabarimala review pleas from January 22

Two lawyers have separately urged the Supreme Court to ensure live streaming of its proceedings in the politically sensitive cases of the Ayodhya land dispute and the Sabarimala issue, saying justice should be made "accessible" to common man.&nbsp;

BJP leader and lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay has written to Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and four other judges seeking live streaming of the Ayodhya title dispute case scheduled for hearing on January 29.

The National Ayyappa Devotees' Association (NADA), represented by lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara, has also sought video recording and live streaming of hearing on the petitions seeking review of the apex court's September 22 verdict allowing all women inside Sabarimala temple, on January 22.

On Thursday, former RSS ideologue K N Govindacharya had written a letter to the Centre seeking live streaming of the top court proceedings in the Ayodhya land dispute case.

He had asked to make arrangements before the next date of hearing in the case to ensure that citizens get the opportunity to witness the proceedings in the "nation's oldest litigation having a lot of confusion and peculiarities".

The petition filed by Upadhyay sought directions to the ministries of law and information and broadcasting to take appropriate steps for live streaming of the Ayodhya case by Doordarshan, which is available on all platforms throughout the country.&nbsp;

Upadhyay's plea also said proceedings are often misquoted by panelists during debates on news channels and since the Ayodhya matter was politically sensitive, a wrong quote may create turbulence in the society.

"Therefore, until a full-fledged module and mechanism for live streaming of the court proceedings is evolved in spirit of the above stated judgment, my Lord may direct the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to take appropriate steps for live streaming of the Ayodhya case by Doordarshan, which is free to air and available on all platforms throughout the country," the plea said.

It also sought permission for other news to broadcast the proceedings through Doordarshan.

The other petition filed by NADA asked for live streaming and video recording of court proceedings during the hearing of the review petitions of Sabarimala so that "justice is made accessible to common man".

It said if the proceedings were allowed to be telecast, millions of devotees of Lord Ayyappa, not merely in Kerala, but all over the world, will have the opportunity to hear and watch what transpired in the court.

"There cannot be an issue of greater importance of public interest or concern than the Sabarimala case. Video recording of the said case would mean the entire proceeding thereof being perpetually available for posterity," the petition said.

On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by then chief justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict had paved the way for entry of women of all ages into the temple, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination.

The temple in Kerala has been witnessing violent protests since the verdict.&nbsp;

Two lawyers have separately urged the Supreme Court to ensure live streaming of its proceedings in the politically sensitive cases of the Ayodhya land dispute and the Sabarimala issue, saying justice should be made "accessible" to common man.

Two lawyers have separately urged the Supreme Court to ensure live streaming of its proceedings in the politically sensitive cases of the Ayodhya land dispute and the Sabarimala issue, saying justice should be made "accessible" to common man. BJP leader and lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay has written to Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and four other judges seeking live streaming of the Ayodhya title dispute case scheduled for hearing on January 29. The National Ayyappa Devotees' Association (NADA), represented by lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara, has also sought video recording and live streaming of hearing on the petitions seeking review of the apex court's September 22 verdict allowing all women inside Sabarimala temple, on January 22. On Thursday, former RSS ideologue K N Govindacharya had written a letter to the Centre seeking live streaming of the top court proceedings in the Ayodhya land dispute case. He had asked to make arrangements before the next date of hearing in the case to ensure that citizens get the opportunity to witness the proceedings in the "nation's oldest litigation having a lot of confusion and peculiarities". The petition filed by Upadhyay sought directions to the ministries of law and information and broadcasting to take appropriate steps for live streaming of the Ayodhya case by Doordarshan, which is available on all platforms throughout the country. Upadhyay's plea also said proceedings are often misquoted by panelists during debates on news channels and since the Ayodhya matter was politically sensitive, a wrong quote may create turbulence in the society. "Therefore, until a full-fledged module and mechanism for live streaming of the court proceedings is evolved in spirit of the above stated judgment, my Lord may direct the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to take appropriate steps for live streaming of the Ayodhya case by Doordarshan, which is free to air and available on all platforms throughout the country," the plea said. It also sought permission for other news to broadcast the proceedings through Doordarshan. The other petition filed by NADA asked for live streaming and video recording of court proceedings during the hearing of the review petitions of Sabarimala so that "justice is made accessible to common man". It said if the proceedings were allowed to be telecast, millions of devotees of Lord Ayyappa, not merely in Kerala, but all over the world, will have the opportunity to hear and watch what transpired in the court. "There cannot be an issue of greater importance of public interest or concern than the Sabarimala case. Video recording of the said case would mean the entire proceeding thereof being perpetually available for posterity," the petition said. On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by then chief justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict had paved the way for entry of women of all ages into the temple, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination. The temple in Kerala has been witnessing violent protests since the verdict.

Lawyers move Supreme Court for live streaming of Ayodhya, Sabarimala hearing

On the face of it, two recent Supreme Court judgements of significance have gone opposite ways for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi certainly gave something that looked like a clean chit for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party when he observed that he found nothing amiss in the confidential details of the pricing of the Rafale fighter jet contract with France's Dassault group, much to the dismay of opposition parties.&nbsp;

In the same court, Justice Dhananjaya Chandrachud seemed to strike a blow to conservative Hindu lobbies that support the BJP when he and his fellow judges ruled that women of reproductive age should no longer be barred from entering the holy shrine to Lord Ayyappan at Sabarimala in Kerala.

However, after seeing violent protests in Kerala last week following the surreptitious entry of some activist women into the Sabarimala temple, I am tempted to think that both the Supreme Court judgements are blessings for the BJP. Here's why.

The Rafale ruling - I hesitate to call it a judgement - took the winds off the sails of the Congress-led opposition in what I would call the urban middle-class constituency. For any party to govern, it is not just enough to win elections. It is also important to get a measure of legitimacy in the urban middle class because it serves as a centre from which thoughts emanate and go back. This is the same social class that produces civil servants, media persons and jurists.

I do believe Rajiv Gandhi-led Congress lost the 1989 elections because he alienated the urban middle class as the BJP and other parties including the Janata Dal led by former Congress finance minister VP Singh successfully drove home the image that the party was lax on corruption and could even be a party to it.

As Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman thundered last week in Parliament in a spirited defence of the Rafale deal, the backing she got from the Supreme Court was such that at the very least, the furore against the BJP's decision to cut down the number of jets and pay a higher price for each in order to fit them with advanced combat capabilities was blunted.

Cut now to Sabarimala in Kerala. You need to look no further than Shashi Tharoor, a poster boy for Westernised, modern urban liberals. Tharoor's position on the temple tilts to the centre at the very least as he cluck-clucks in sympathy with those who want a traditional form of worship that barred women of reproductive age from entering the shrine upheld. The reasons he cited are based on faith, not the kind of egalitarianism that he otherwise espouses. The former UN under-secretary-general is now a grassroots politician for the Congress in Thiruvananthapuram and also recently authored a book, 'Why I Am A Hindu'.

It is clear to me, as it is to him and many Congress leaders, that it is important to stress that they are not anti-Hindu. The BJP has successfully built a narrative of Hinduism being challenged both politically and judicially. Whether its critics like it or not, both Kerala and neighbouring Tamil Nadu have entered the era of what I call post-poverty politics. Cultural issues are increasingly important. The Sabarimala shrine is also popular among Tamilians, &nbsp;thousands of whom make the annual pilgrimage to the mountain temple of Lord Ayyappan across the border. I do believe both Kerala and Tamil Nadu now have a larger Hindutva constituency and the BJP is a political gainer from the Sabarimala protests. In that sense, the Supreme Court verdict is a left-handed (no pun intended) compliment to the BJP's ideological moorings.

The BJP has had no significant presence in either Tamil Nadu or Kerala and has a long way to go in both states. However, the rise of Hindu customs and beliefs has been steady in Tamil Nadu, slowly eclipsing the rationalist, atheist Dravida ideology championed by 'Periyar' EV Ramaswamy Naicker, whose Dravida Kazhagam gave rise to the DMK and the AIADMK.

AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa wore her Hindu beliefs on her sleeves as Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister. Tamil Nadu is gossiping about the recent visit to Varanasi by Durga Stalin, the wife of MK Stalin, the president of the DMK. Stalin has been named after one of the world's biggest communist icons. Interesting, isn't it?

At another level, the BJP is more or less in bed with a number of AIADMK functionaries or groups. We have to watch that space as general elections draw near. My guess is that the BJP has found itself a beachhead in Tamil Nadu, something it could barely dream of two decades ago.

Interestingly, the last word is not yet out on both the Supreme Court rulings as both cases have review petitions pending before the highest court of the land. For all we know, there could be twists in the tale. But I do believe the advantage now rests with the BJP. There is a delicious irony in this because Modi's party appears to be gaining in the south, where it was once considered non-existent, while its position is not as secure in the north as it was thought to be. But then, that is another story.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/supreme-court-verdicts-on-sabarimala-and-rafale-are-blessings-for-bjps-political-agenda-2169283.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

On the face of it, two recent Supreme Court judgements of significance have gone opposite ways for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi certainly gave something that looked like a clean chit for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party when he observed that he found nothing amiss in the confidential details of the pricing of the Rafale fighter jet contract with France's Dassault group, much to the dismay of opposition parties.

On the face of it, two recent Supreme Court judgements of significance have gone opposite ways for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi certainly gave something that looked like a clean chit for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party when he observed that he found nothing amiss in the confidential details of the pricing of the Rafale fighter jet contract with France's Dassault group, much to the dismay of opposition parties. In the same court, Justice Dhananjaya Chandrachud seemed to strike a blow to conservative Hindu lobbies that support the BJP when he and his fellow judges ruled that women of reproductive age should no longer be barred from entering the holy shrine to Lord Ayyappan at Sabarimala in Kerala. However, after seeing violent protests in Kerala last week following the surreptitious entry of some activist women into the Sabarimala temple, I am tempted to think that both the Supreme Court judgements are blessings for the BJP. Here's why. The Rafale ruling - I hesitate to call it a judgement - took the winds off the sails of the Congress-led opposition in what I would call the urban middle-class constituency. For any party to govern, it is not just enough to win elections. It is also important to get a measure of legitimacy in the urban middle class because it serves as a centre from which thoughts emanate and go back. This is the same social class that produces civil servants, media persons and jurists. I do believe Rajiv Gandhi-led Congress lost the 1989 elections because he alienated the urban middle class as the BJP and other parties including the Janata Dal led by former Congress finance minister VP Singh successfully drove home the image that the party was lax on corruption and could even be a party to it. As Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman thundered last week in Parliament in a spirited defence of the Rafale deal, the backing she got from the Supreme Court was such that at the very least, the furore against the BJP's decision to cut down the number of jets and pay a higher price for each in order to fit them with advanced combat capabilities was blunted. Cut now to Sabarimala in Kerala. You need to look no further than Shashi Tharoor, a poster boy for Westernised, modern urban liberals. Tharoor's position on the temple tilts to the centre at the very least as he cluck-clucks in sympathy with those who want a traditional form of worship that barred women of reproductive age from entering the shrine upheld. The reasons he cited are based on faith, not the kind of egalitarianism that he otherwise espouses. The former UN under-secretary-general is now a grassroots politician for the Congress in Thiruvananthapuram and also recently authored a book, 'Why I Am A Hindu'. It is clear to me, as it is to him and many Congress leaders, that it is important to stress that they are not anti-Hindu. The BJP has successfully built a narrative of Hinduism being challenged both politically and judicially. Whether its critics like it or not, both Kerala and neighbouring Tamil Nadu have entered the era of what I call post-poverty politics. Cultural issues are increasingly important. The Sabarimala shrine is also popular among Tamilians, thousands of whom make the annual pilgrimage to the mountain temple of Lord Ayyappan across the border. I do believe both Kerala and Tamil Nadu now have a larger Hindutva constituency and the BJP is a political gainer from the Sabarimala protests. In that sense, the Supreme Court verdict is a left-handed (no pun intended) compliment to the BJP's ideological moorings. The BJP has had no significant presence in either Tamil Nadu or Kerala and has a long way to go in both states. However, the rise of Hindu customs and beliefs has been steady in Tamil Nadu, slowly eclipsing the rationalist, atheist Dravida ideology championed by 'Periyar' EV Ramaswamy Naicker, whose Dravida Kazhagam gave rise to the DMK and the AIADMK. AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa wore her Hindu beliefs on her sleeves as Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister. Tamil Nadu is gossiping about the recent visit to Varanasi by Durga Stalin, the wife of MK Stalin, the president of the DMK. Stalin has been named after one of the world's biggest communist icons. Interesting, isn't it? At another level, the BJP is more or less in bed with a number of AIADMK functionaries or groups. We have to watch that space as general elections draw near. My guess is that the BJP has found itself a beachhead in Tamil Nadu, something it could barely dream of two decades ago. Interestingly, the last word is not yet out on both the Supreme Court rulings as both cases have review petitions pending before the highest court of the land. For all we know, there could be twists in the tale. But I do believe the advantage now rests with the BJP. There is a delicious irony in this because Modi's party appears to be gaining in the south, where it was once considered non-existent, while its position is not as secure in the north as it was thought to be. But then, that is another story. (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Supreme Court verdicts on Sabarimala and Rafale are blessings for BJP

Kerala was mostly peaceful Sunday after four days of widespread violence involving BJP-RSS and ruling CPI(M) workers following the entry of two women of child-bearing age into the Sabarimala temple, with 1,869 cases being registered so far and 5,769 people arrested. Asserting that the state government had a constitutional duty to implement the September 28 Supreme Court order allowing women of all ages into the shrine to offer prayers, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said they would not be cowed down by threats of “constitutional consequences” for Sabarimala violence.

Vijayan asked the BJP national leadership to instruct its cadre in Kerala to stop creating violence in the state. “The state has a constitutional duty to implement the Supreme Court order. There is no violence other than the ones created by the RSS, BJP and the Sangh Parivar. And now they are threatening the state with constitutional consequences,” Vijayan said in a Facebook post. The chief minister’s post came on a day Union minister Smriti Irani alleged that the CPI(M)-led LDF government was arresting BJP workers for raising their voice against the state.

BJP national spokesperson Narasimha Rao had warned the state government Saturday, saying it would have to face constitutional consequences. Vijayan also alleged that the Sangh Parivar was trying to implement the same methods that they tried in northern India. “Sangh Parivar was trying to implement the same methods which they have tried on northern India. It’s not going to succeed in Kerala. The state will deal with all kinds of attempts to create violence and communal riots with iron hands,” Vijayan said.

So far, 1,869 cases have been registered and 5,769 persons arrested in connection with the violence. At least 4,980 persons have been granted bail, a statement from the State Police chief Loknath Behara said. While in Palakkad, 283 cases have been registered so far and 764 persons arrested, in Kannur district, where crude bombs were hurled at the house of Thalassery MLA A M Shamseer and BJP leader and MP V Muraleedharan, 225 cases have been booked and 394 arrested so far. In Pathanamthitta district, where the Sabarimala temple is located, 267 cases have been registered and 677 people arrested so far. Meanwhile, the Nair Service Society (NSS), an organisation of the forward Nair community, attacked the state government over the entry of young women into the Sabarimala temple, saying it was making planned move to impose atheism on the people.

However, some state ministers came down heavily on the NSS saying it was voicing the RSS agenda. UDF convenor Benny Behanan, however, protested the attack against the NSS by the ministers. After a meeting on Sunday, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which manages the Sabarimala temple, directed Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru to provide his explanation within 15 days for performing the purification ceremony after the two women — Bindu and Kanakadurga — entered the temple on January 2. Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran and Devaswom Commissioner N Vasu lashed out at the tantri for not taking permission from the TDB.

“The temple is controlled by the TDB. Tantri should have discussed with the board before conducting the purification ritual,” Surendran said. The purification ritual is against the Untouchability Offences Act. “Any action against the tantri will be taken after getting his explanation which the board has sought,” the minister said. The entry of two women in their forties to the hill shrine, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, had triggered massive protests in Kerala.

Kerala was mostly peaceful Sunday after four days of widespread violence involving BJP-RSS and ruling CPI(M) workers following the entry of two women of child-bearing age into the Sabarimala temple, with 1,869 cases being registered so far and 5,769 people arrested.

Kerala was mostly peaceful Sunday after four days of widespread violence involving BJP-RSS and ruling CPI(M) workers following the entry of two women of child-bearing age into the Sabarimala temple, with 1,869 cases being registered so far and 5,769 people arrested. Asserting that the state government had a constitutional duty to implement the September 28 Supreme Court order allowing women of all ages into the shrine to offer prayers, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said they would not be cowed down by threats of “constitutional consequences” for Sabarimala violence. Vijayan asked the BJP national leadership to instruct its cadre in Kerala to stop creating violence in the state. “The state has a constitutional duty to implement the Supreme Court order. There is no violence other than the ones created by the RSS, BJP and the Sangh Parivar. And now they are threatening the state with constitutional consequences,” Vijayan said in a Facebook post. The chief minister’s post came on a day Union minister Smriti Irani alleged that the CPI(M)-led LDF government was arresting BJP workers for raising their voice against the state. BJP national spokesperson Narasimha Rao had warned the state government Saturday, saying it would have to face constitutional consequences. Vijayan also alleged that the Sangh Parivar was trying to implement the same methods that they tried in northern India. “Sangh Parivar was trying to implement the same methods which they have tried on northern India. It’s not going to succeed in Kerala. The state will deal with all kinds of attempts to create violence and communal riots with iron hands,” Vijayan said. So far, 1,869 cases have been registered and 5,769 persons arrested in connection with the violence. At least 4,980 persons have been granted bail, a statement from the State Police chief Loknath Behara said. While in Palakkad, 283 cases have been registered so far and 764 persons arrested, in Kannur district, where crude bombs were hurled at the house of Thalassery MLA A M Shamseer and BJP leader and MP V Muraleedharan, 225 cases have been booked and 394 arrested so far. In Pathanamthitta district, where the Sabarimala temple is located, 267 cases have been registered and 677 people arrested so far. Meanwhile, the Nair Service Society (NSS), an organisation of the forward Nair community, attacked the state government over the entry of young women into the Sabarimala temple, saying it was making planned move to impose atheism on the people. However, some state ministers came down heavily on the NSS saying it was voicing the RSS agenda. UDF convenor Benny Behanan, however, protested the attack against the NSS by the ministers. After a meeting on Sunday, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which manages the Sabarimala temple, directed Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru to provide his explanation within 15 days for performing the purification ceremony after the two women — Bindu and Kanakadurga — entered the temple on January 2. Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran and Devaswom Commissioner N Vasu lashed out at the tantri for not taking permission from the TDB. “The temple is controlled by the TDB. Tantri should have discussed with the board before conducting the purification ritual,” Surendran said. The purification ritual is against the Untouchability Offences Act. “Any action against the tantri will be taken after getting his explanation which the board has sought,” the minister said. The entry of two women in their forties to the hill shrine, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, had triggered massive protests in Kerala.

Sabarimala violence: Peaceful Sunday in Kerala, over 5,700 people arrested

As Kerala continued to witness incidents of violence, Governor Justice P Sathasivam Saturday briefed the Centre about the law and order situation in the southern state.

"Briefed Hon'ble Union Home Minister @HMOIndia Shri. Rajnath Singh about the law and order situation in Kerala in the last two days #kerala," he tweeted.

Raj Bhavan sources told PTI that the Governor, who is now in Chennai, briefed Singh about the situation over phone.

With the state witnessing widespread violence during the 12-hour state-wide shutdown called by Hindu fringe groups on Thursday, Sathasivam had sought an "urgent report" from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

He had also appealed to all sections of people to maintain calm and peace across the state.

The entry of two women of reproductive age into the Lord Ayyappa shrine at Sabarimala on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on entry of women devotees, has triggered massive protests in Kerala.

Violence involving BJP-RSS and ruling CPI(M) workers rocked parts of Kerala, particularly Kannur, Saturday with a number of houses and shops of rival leaders and workers being attacked over the issue.&nbsp;

As Kerala continued to witness incidents of violence, Governor Justice P Sathasivam Saturday briefed the Centre about the law and order situation in the southern state.

As Kerala continued to witness incidents of violence, Governor Justice P Sathasivam Saturday briefed the Centre about the law and order situation in the southern state. "Briefed Hon'ble Union Home Minister @HMOIndia Shri. Rajnath Singh about the law and order situation in Kerala in the last two days #kerala," he tweeted. Raj Bhavan sources told PTI that the Governor, who is now in Chennai, briefed Singh about the situation over phone. With the state witnessing widespread violence during the 12-hour state-wide shutdown called by Hindu fringe groups on Thursday, Sathasivam had sought an "urgent report" from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He had also appealed to all sections of people to maintain calm and peace across the state. The entry of two women of reproductive age into the Lord Ayyappa shrine at Sabarimala on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on entry of women devotees, has triggered massive protests in Kerala. Violence involving BJP-RSS and ruling CPI(M) workers rocked parts of Kerala, particularly Kannur, Saturday with a number of houses and shops of rival leaders and workers being attacked over the issue.

Sabarimala: Kerala government briefs Rajnath Singh over law and order situation

The United Kingdom government has warned tourists visiting Kerala following violent protests over the issue of women entering the Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala.

Britain updated its travel advisory to India, warning British citizens to remain vigilant and avoid large public gatherings.

The foreign and commonwealth office which regularly updates its advice for travel to different parts of the world said that any British citizens planning to travel to Kerala should monitor media reports.

Kerala has been rocked by protests by right-wing groups after two women of "Menstruating age" offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on January 2.&nbsp;

Hundreds of people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence over the last few days. 
&nbsp; 
The Sabarimala temple has been at the centre of a prolonged showdown between traditionalists and authorities since September, 2018.

Supreme Court has overturned a ban on women of menstruating age -- deemed as those aged 10 to 50 -- setting foot inside the temple.

The United Kingdom government has warned tourists visiting Kerala following violent protests over the issue of women entering the Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala. Britain updated its travel advisory to India, warning British citizens to remain vigilant and avoid large public gatherings.

The United Kingdom government has warned tourists visiting Kerala following violent protests over the issue of women entering the Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala. Britain updated its travel advisory to India, warning British citizens to remain vigilant and avoid large public gatherings. The foreign and commonwealth office which regularly updates its advice for travel to different parts of the world said that any British citizens planning to travel to Kerala should monitor media reports. Kerala has been rocked by protests by right-wing groups after two women of "Menstruating age" offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on January 2. Hundreds of people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence over the last few days. The Sabarimala temple has been at the centre of a prolonged showdown between traditionalists and authorities since September, 2018. Supreme Court has overturned a ban on women of menstruating age -- deemed as those aged 10 to 50 -- setting foot inside the temple.

Sabarimala row: UK government warns tourists visiting Kerala 

Violence continued over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the revered Sabarimala temple, as unidentified people hurled a country-made bomb at the ancestral home of BJP MP and set fire to an office of the RSS here, police said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA AN Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi.

The incident at the ancestral house of BJP Rajya Sabha member V Muraleedharan occurred in the early hours of Saturday. No one was injured, police said.

Muraleedharan said his ancestral home at Vadiyil Peedikia near Thalassery came under attack, but no one was injured.

"My sister, brother-in-law and their daughter were in the house when the attack took place," he told PTI from Andhra Pradesh.

In another incident, unidentified people set fire to an office of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Pariyaram area in the morning, police sources told PTI.

The entry of two women into the hill shrine on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, triggered massive protests in Kerala.&nbsp;

Muraleedharan had sought a probe by the NIA into the "conspiracy" of police escorting the two women with Maoist links to Sabarimala.

So far, over 1,700 people have been arrested in connection with violence in various parts of the state.

Talking to the media Saturday morning, Sasi said the "powerful" bomb hurled at his house caused damage to the building.

The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA A N Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi.

Violence continued over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the revered Sabarimala temple, as unidentified people hurled a country-made bomb at the ancestral home of BJP MP and set fire to an office of the RSS here, police said on Saturday. The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA AN Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi. The incident at the ancestral house of BJP Rajya Sabha member V Muraleedharan occurred in the early hours of Saturday. No one was injured, police said. Muraleedharan said his ancestral home at Vadiyil Peedikia near Thalassery came under attack, but no one was injured. "My sister, brother-in-law and their daughter were in the house when the attack took place," he told PTI from Andhra Pradesh. In another incident, unidentified people set fire to an office of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Pariyaram area in the morning, police sources told PTI. The entry of two women into the hill shrine on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, triggered massive protests in Kerala. Muraleedharan had sought a probe by the NIA into the "conspiracy" of police escorting the two women with Maoist links to Sabarimala. So far, over 1,700 people have been arrested in connection with violence in various parts of the state. Talking to the media Saturday morning, Sasi said the "powerful" bomb hurled at his house caused damage to the building.

Sabarimala violence: BJP MP's ancestral home attacked; RSS office set on fire 

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has sought an explanation from the Tantri (chief priest) of the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala for the "purification" ritual, held after two women of menstruating age entered the hilltop shrine.

The board has asked Tantri to provide an explanation within 15 days as he has the final authority on issues relating to temples, including ceremonies, rites, practices, etc.

On September 28 last year, the Supreme Court has lifted a ban on entry of age group between 10 to 50 years into the Lord Ayyappa shrine, the "purification" process was against the verdict of the apex court.

The incident comes days after two women below 50 years, Bindu and Kanakadurga, entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer prayers.

Following this, purification process took place in the temple and violent protests broke out across the state with agitators pelting stones and blocking national highways.

Several parties including BJP also held a protest march in most parts of the state against the entry of women into the hilltop shrine. (ANI)&nbsp;

The board has asked the priest to provide an explanation within 15 days as he has the final authority on issues relating to temples, including ceremonies, rites, practices, etc.

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has sought an explanation from the Tantri (chief priest) of the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala for the "purification" ritual, held after two women of menstruating age entered the hilltop shrine. The board has asked Tantri to provide an explanation within 15 days as he has the final authority on issues relating to temples, including ceremonies, rites, practices, etc. On September 28 last year, the Supreme Court has lifted a ban on entry of age group between 10 to 50 years into the Lord Ayyappa shrine, the "purification" process was against the verdict of the apex court. The incident comes days after two women below 50 years, Bindu and Kanakadurga, entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer prayers. Following this, purification process took place in the temple and violent protests broke out across the state with agitators pelting stones and blocking national highways. Several parties including BJP also held a protest march in most parts of the state against the entry of women into the hilltop shrine. (ANI)

Sabarimala row: Travancore Devaswom Board seeks explanation from temple priest for purification ritual

Noting that the Supreme Court in India has ruled on the issue of women entering the Sabarimala temple in Kerala, a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said the world body encourages all to respect the rule of law.

"As you know, this is an issue on which the Supreme Court of India has commented. So, we will leave the matter in the hands of the rule of law authorities in India. Of course, we want all parties to respect the rule of law, and you're aware of the UN's position and its fundamental position on the rights on equal rights of all people,"&nbsp;Deputy

A spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Farhan Haq told reporters at his daily press briefing Friday.

Haq was asked about the UN's position on the Sabarimala situation in the wake of the widespread violence in Kerala over the entry of women into the hill-top shrine.

Haq reiterated that the UN "obviously" encourages all to respect the laws of the country when he was asked by a reporter that not allowing women to enter the temple is a violation of human rights, given that the Supreme Court has ruled in the matter.

When asked if the UN's position on equal rights for women also applies to other religions such as Islam or Catholicism, Haq said "It applies across the board. The question is how that is to be carried out. In this case, like I said&nbsp;ultimately, this is a question on which the courts have pronounced themselves, and we encourage respect for the rule of law." 
 
Kerala has been marred with violence since the afternoon of January 2 after two women of menstruating age managed to enter Sabarimala temple.

The shrine was out of bounds for girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age. The Supreme Court's September 28 verdict allowed women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

The southern state has been witnessing massive protests from the right-wing organisations since the Left-led state government decided to implement the Supreme Court ruling.&nbsp;

Kerala has been marred with violence since the afternoon of January 2 after two women of menstruating age managed to enter Sabarimala temple.

Noting that the Supreme Court in India has ruled on the issue of women entering the Sabarimala temple in Kerala, a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said the world body encourages all to respect the rule of law. "As you know, this is an issue on which the Supreme Court of India has commented. So, we will leave the matter in the hands of the rule of law authorities in India. Of course, we want all parties to respect the rule of law, and you're aware of the UN's position and its fundamental position on the rights on equal rights of all people," Deputy A spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Farhan Haq told reporters at his daily press briefing Friday. Haq was asked about the UN's position on the Sabarimala situation in the wake of the widespread violence in Kerala over the entry of women into the hill-top shrine. Haq reiterated that the UN "obviously" encourages all to respect the laws of the country when he was asked by a reporter that not allowing women to enter the temple is a violation of human rights, given that the Supreme Court has ruled in the matter. When asked if the UN's position on equal rights for women also applies to other religions such as Islam or Catholicism, Haq said "It applies across the board. The question is how that is to be carried out. In this case, like I said ultimately, this is a question on which the courts have pronounced themselves, and we encourage respect for the rule of law." Kerala has been marred with violence since the afternoon of January 2 after two women of menstruating age managed to enter Sabarimala temple. The shrine was out of bounds for girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age. The Supreme Court's September 28 verdict allowed women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The southern state has been witnessing massive protests from the right-wing organisations since the Left-led state government decided to implement the Supreme Court ruling.

Sabarimala row: UN encourages all to respect rule of law, says Antonio Guterres' spokesperson

Kerala temple stand-off: Sri Lankan women enters Sabarimala

Eminent space scientist G Madhavan Nair, who recently joined the BJP, Friday termed as an "act of cowardice," the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-temple-stand-off-sri-lankan-women-enters-sabarimala-188143">entry of two women in menstrual age</a> into the Sabarimala temple.

Nair, who had served as Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation, said the LDF government should focus on rebuilding Kerala after the devastating floods last year that left a trail of destruction on a massive scale.

"The government is totally wasting its energy on a totally trivial issue (<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/confusion-over-lankan-womans-entry-into-sabarimala-188210">Sabarimala</a>)," he told PTI. "Lot of damages have happened in Kerala following the flood.

Reconstruction and rehabilitation activities are progressing at a snail's pace. They should instead attend to those things."

"This an act of cowardice," Nair said on the entry into the Lord Ayyappa shrine two days ago by two women in their 40s, and termed it as "government-sponsored."

"Anybody can do that. It's all done in the midnight.. The operation was done in the darkness," he said.

"Whatever peaceful atmosphere created after initial trouble (following the Supreme Court judgement allowing women of all age group to enter the remple), that's spoiled now".

On the practice of barring women of menstruating age from entering the Ayyappa temple, he said "It's a practice, tradition of the people and devotees who are there and one has to respect that. I don't think there is any constitutionality involved in that."

"If you look at Sikh or Muslims or Christians, they have their own practices. Is the Court or Government coming and interfering in that? And why is Hindu community alone being targetted? It's a political agenda," Nair said.

On his association with the BJP, Nair said he has been working for the party for a long time but was formally welcomed into its fold by BJP President Amit Shah during a visit to Kerala last year.

"I am not taking an active role in the party mechanism, but I will be providing intellectual support," he said, adding, he is trying to draw up a "developmental agenda" for Kerala.

"That's something half completed, soon making a full document of that (development agenda)," he added.

Eminent space scientist G Madhavan Nair, who recently joined the BJP, Friday termed as an "act of cowardice," the entry of two women in menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple.

Eminent space scientist G Madhavan Nair, who recently joined the BJP, Friday termed as an "act of cowardice," the entry of two women in menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple. Nair, who had served as Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation, said the LDF government should focus on rebuilding Kerala after the devastating floods last year that left a trail of destruction on a massive scale. "The government is totally wasting its energy on a totally trivial issue (Sabarimala)," he told PTI. "Lot of damages have happened in Kerala following the flood. Reconstruction and rehabilitation activities are progressing at a snail's pace. They should instead attend to those things." "This an act of cowardice," Nair said on the entry into the Lord Ayyappa shrine two days ago by two women in their 40s, and termed it as "government-sponsored." "Anybody can do that. It's all done in the midnight.. The operation was done in the darkness," he said. "Whatever peaceful atmosphere created after initial trouble (following the Supreme Court judgement allowing women of all age group to enter the remple), that's spoiled now". On the practice of barring women of menstruating age from entering the Ayyappa temple, he said "It's a practice, tradition of the people and devotees who are there and one has to respect that. I don't think there is any constitutionality involved in that." "If you look at Sikh or Muslims or Christians, they have their own practices. Is the Court or Government coming and interfering in that? And why is Hindu community alone being targetted? It's a political agenda," Nair said. On his association with the BJP, Nair said he has been working for the party for a long time but was formally welcomed into its fold by BJP President Amit Shah during a visit to Kerala last year. "I am not taking an active role in the party mechanism, but I will be providing intellectual support," he said, adding, he is trying to draw up a "developmental agenda" for Kerala. "That's something half completed, soon making a full document of that (development agenda)," he added.

Temple entry under cover of darkness an 'act of cowardice': Former ISRO chairman G Madhavan Nair

Bindu and Kanakadurga, the two women in their 40s, who created history by defying threats from saffron organisations and offered prayers at Sabarimala temple, Thursday said they were not tools of anyone and dismissed as "baseless" the allegations that they were playing into the hands of police and the government.

They also said their aim was Sabarimala darshan and they achieved it without facing any trouble from the devotees.

"All the pilgrims going to Sabarimala were very cooperative. We never had any problem from other devotees. We trekked down safely from the shrine," Kanakadurga said.

The shrine, which was out of bounds for girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age, on Wednesday saw the breaking of centuries-old tradition and infuriating the Hindu right outfits when the 42-year-old Bindu and 44-year-old Kanakadurga visited it under police protection.

In an exclusive interview given to Manorama channel, Kanakadurga said, "Going to Sabarimala was my own decision."

Dismissing the conspiracy angle being alleged by the Sangh Parivar outfits and the Opposition Congress that the two women were playing into the hands of police and the government, the women said they "used" the police machinery to enter Sabarimala on the basis of the September 28 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine.

"We do not know whether chief minister had any role in our reaching the shrine," they said.

"We are a group of like-minded people. That's why we have come together to trek the temple. Police or political party agenda, as was being alleged by the BJP and others, is baseless," she said.

When asked whether they were devotees or activists, Kanakadurga said there an activist can also be a devotee.

"Activists are also devotees. If some activist wants to visit a temple, they can.The September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court allows all women to go, whether they are activists or devotees," she said.

Bindu told the channel that they were adamant and wanted to visit the shrine after failing in their first attempt on December 24 when they were forced to return due to violent protests.

"If we had gone back to our respective homes, we were sure that we may never visit Sabarimala. So we sought help from the police and SPs from two districts," she said.

She also said they did not disclose where they stayed after the December 24 fiasco as they feared the safety of their friends.

"We sought security from Pamba, (Sabarimala foothills), and the trip was not in any ambulance as claimed by political parties. We trekked all the way to the shrine," Bindu told the channel.

Dismissing the allegations that they have political affiliations, Bindu said those who oppose the entry of women into Sabarimala have always labelled as "Maoists" the women who attempted to trek the hills.

"I am not affiliated with any political party or organisation now. I have left all those years back. I was part of the CPI(ML)'s Central Committee and later resigned owing to differences. I am not part of any organisation now," she said, adding that she was a key speaker at a BJP event on Human Rights Day years ago.&nbsp;

"That doesn't mean that I am with BJP. Just because I entered Sabarimala will never make me a communist," she said.

When asked about her family's support, Bindu said she has the backing of her husband Hariharan on every issue, including Sabarimala, and he had even accompanied the duo till Sannidhanam (temple complex).

When asked about her mother's criticism for undertaking the trip to Sabarimala, Bindu said her mother has got all rights to express her views.&nbsp;

"My mother and brother have all the rights to say that women should not enter Sabarimala. This is a democratic country. They can express their views and rights. They are entitled to their views," she said.

Kanakadurga said she was staying with her husband and kids but may have some ideological differences.

She also said that her husband tried to dissuade her considering her safety.

Bindu said the petitions on Sabarimala issue were coming up before the Supreme Court on January 22, and "these riot-mongers" had an agenda to not allow the women to enter the shrine before that.

"This was a clear-cut political agenda played by the Sangh Parivar organisations to uproot the left ideology from Kerala and come to power," she said.

"It has been exposed that there were no objections from the devotees but the protests were from these riot-mongers. The Kerala society has understood the same. They have been exposed," Bindu said.

Meanwhile, a top police official confirmed to PTI that at least 20-30 anti-Maoist commandos escorted the women to the shrine. However, It was not clear from where the police escorted them.&nbsp;

Kerala was in ferment on Thursday, a day after the two women entered the Sabarimala temple, infuriating saffron outfits, with protesters blocking roads by placing burning tyres and granite blocks, and clashes leaving 31 police personnel and many others injured.

The dawn to a dusk shutdown called by the Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, and the Antarrashtriya

Hindu Parishad (AHP), plunged the state into turmoil, as hundreds of Hindu right-wing activists disrupted vehicular movement and vandalised shops and offices of the ruling CPI(M).&nbsp;

They also said their aim was Sabarimala darshan and they achieved it without facing any trouble from the devotees.

Bindu and Kanakadurga, the two women in their 40s, who created history by defying threats from saffron organisations and offered prayers at Sabarimala temple, Thursday said they were not tools of anyone and dismissed as "baseless" the allegations that they were playing into the hands of police and the government. They also said their aim was Sabarimala darshan and they achieved it without facing any trouble from the devotees. "All the pilgrims going to Sabarimala were very cooperative. We never had any problem from other devotees. We trekked down safely from the shrine," Kanakadurga said. The shrine, which was out of bounds for girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age, on Wednesday saw the breaking of centuries-old tradition and infuriating the Hindu right outfits when the 42-year-old Bindu and 44-year-old Kanakadurga visited it under police protection. In an exclusive interview given to Manorama channel, Kanakadurga said, "Going to Sabarimala was my own decision." Dismissing the conspiracy angle being alleged by the Sangh Parivar outfits and the Opposition Congress that the two women were playing into the hands of police and the government, the women said they "used" the police machinery to enter Sabarimala on the basis of the September 28 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the hill shrine. "We do not know whether chief minister had any role in our reaching the shrine," they said. "We are a group of like-minded people. That's why we have come together to trek the temple. Police or political party agenda, as was being alleged by the BJP and others, is baseless," she said. When asked whether they were devotees or activists, Kanakadurga said there an activist can also be a devotee. "Activists are also devotees. If some activist wants to visit a temple, they can.The September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court allows all women to go, whether they are activists or devotees," she said. Bindu told the channel that they were adamant and wanted to visit the shrine after failing in their first attempt on December 24 when they were forced to return due to violent protests. "If we had gone back to our respective homes, we were sure that we may never visit Sabarimala. So we sought help from the police and SPs from two districts," she said. She also said they did not disclose where they stayed after the December 24 fiasco as they feared the safety of their friends. "We sought security from Pamba, (Sabarimala foothills), and the trip was not in any ambulance as claimed by political parties. We trekked all the way to the shrine," Bindu told the channel. Dismissing the allegations that they have political affiliations, Bindu said those who oppose the entry of women into Sabarimala have always labelled as "Maoists" the women who attempted to trek the hills. "I am not affiliated with any political party or organisation now. I have left all those years back. I was part of the CPI(ML)'s Central Committee and later resigned owing to differences. I am not part of any organisation now," she said, adding that she was a key speaker at a BJP event on Human Rights Day years ago. "That doesn't mean that I am with BJP. Just because I entered Sabarimala will never make me a communist," she said. When asked about her family's support, Bindu said she has the backing of her husband Hariharan on every issue, including Sabarimala, and he had even accompanied the duo till Sannidhanam (temple complex). When asked about her mother's criticism for undertaking the trip to Sabarimala, Bindu said her mother has got all rights to express her views. "My mother and brother have all the rights to say that women should not enter Sabarimala. This is a democratic country. They can express their views and rights. They are entitled to their views," she said. Kanakadurga said she was staying with her husband and kids but may have some ideological differences. She also said that her husband tried to dissuade her considering her safety. Bindu said the petitions on Sabarimala issue were coming up before the Supreme Court on January 22, and "these riot-mongers" had an agenda to not allow the women to enter the shrine before that. "This was a clear-cut political agenda played by the Sangh Parivar organisations to uproot the left ideology from Kerala and come to power," she said. "It has been exposed that there were no objections from the devotees but the protests were from these riot-mongers. The Kerala society has understood the same. They have been exposed," Bindu said. Meanwhile, a top police official confirmed to PTI that at least 20-30 anti-Maoist commandos escorted the women to the shrine. However, It was not clear from where the police escorted them. Kerala was in ferment on Thursday, a day after the two women entered the Sabarimala temple, infuriating saffron outfits, with protesters blocking roads by placing burning tyres and granite blocks, and clashes leaving 31 police personnel and many others injured. The dawn to a dusk shutdown called by the Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, and the Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP), plunged the state into turmoil, as hundreds of Hindu right-wing activists disrupted vehicular movement and vandalised shops and offices of the ruling CPI(M).

Are not part of any agenda, say two women who visited Sabarimala temple

Confusion prevailed over the entry of a 46-year old Sri Lankan Tamil woman into the Lord Ayyappa temple here late Thursday night with the woman denying it and official sources claiming otherwise.

While the woman, Sasikala, said she was not allowed to undertake the trek to the shrine and sent back by the police, official sources told PTI that she entered the sanctum sanctorum and offered prayers.

Sasikala, who was accompanied by her husband, Saravanan, and son for darshan, told reporters at Pamba that she was not allowed to offer prayers at the temple.

Saravanan said only he and his son were able to offer worship at the temple on Thursday, the day when parts of Kerala witnessed violent protests over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the shrine.

Last night, some television channels aired visuals of the woman with "irumudikettu" (sacred offerings) and two policemen in mufti (plain clothes accompanying her.

On spotting the media, the policemen were seen scurrying away.

Sasikala claimed that at Marakootam, she was prevented by the police from proceeding further.

"There was no protest from devotees. But police sent me back. I am an Ayyappa devotee. They did not allow me to go to the shrine. I am not scared of anyone...," she told reporters on her return to Pamba, foothills of Sabarimala.

Sasikala claimed she had observed the 41-day "vratham" (penance).

"They did not allow me. Why did they not allow me? Why are you all standing around me now? I am not afraid of anyone. Ayyappa will answer you all. I am an Ayyappa devotee. I have not come here to act as others. You will come to know who I am," she said, visibly agitated.

On Friday, a transgender, Kayal, who arrived at Pamba at around 6 am, was turned away by the police and not allowed to go to the temple complex following protest from the devotees, the police said.

Kayal had come in a saree and later changed into men's clothing and tried to trek the holy hills with "irrumudikettu", they said.

Four transgenders had recently offered prayers at Sabarimala.

While the woman, Sasikala, said she was not allowed to undertake the trek to the shrine and sent back by the police, official sources told PTI that she entered the sanctum sanctorum and offered prayers.

Confusion prevailed over the entry of a 46-year old Sri Lankan Tamil woman into the Lord Ayyappa temple here late Thursday night with the woman denying it and official sources claiming otherwise. While the woman, Sasikala, said she was not allowed to undertake the trek to the shrine and sent back by the police, official sources told PTI that she entered the sanctum sanctorum and offered prayers. Sasikala, who was accompanied by her husband, Saravanan, and son for darshan, told reporters at Pamba that she was not allowed to offer prayers at the temple. Saravanan said only he and his son were able to offer worship at the temple on Thursday, the day when parts of Kerala witnessed violent protests over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the shrine. Last night, some television channels aired visuals of the woman with "irumudikettu" (sacred offerings) and two policemen in mufti (plain clothes accompanying her. On spotting the media, the policemen were seen scurrying away. Sasikala claimed that at Marakootam, she was prevented by the police from proceeding further. "There was no protest from devotees. But police sent me back. I am an Ayyappa devotee. They did not allow me to go to the shrine. I am not scared of anyone...," she told reporters on her return to Pamba, foothills of Sabarimala. Sasikala claimed she had observed the 41-day "vratham" (penance). "They did not allow me. Why did they not allow me? Why are you all standing around me now? I am not afraid of anyone. Ayyappa will answer you all. I am an Ayyappa devotee. I have not come here to act as others. You will come to know who I am," she said, visibly agitated. On Friday, a transgender, Kayal, who arrived at Pamba at around 6 am, was turned away by the police and not allowed to go to the temple complex following protest from the devotees, the police said. Kayal had come in a saree and later changed into men's clothing and tried to trek the holy hills with "irrumudikettu", they said. Four transgenders had recently offered prayers at Sabarimala.

Confusion over Lankan woman's entry into Sabarimala

A dawn-to-dusk 12-hour hartal called by Hindu outfits began Thursday morning in protest against the entry of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-kerala-cm-confirms-entry-of-2-women-tdp-board-denies-temple-shut-for-purification-187821"> two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple </a>of Lord Ayyappa.

As per initial reports, auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers were plying at the railway station in the state capital and various other places.

But in Kozhikode, protesters blocked vehicles and burnt tyres in the morning.

The hartal, which began at 6 am, has been called by Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, spearheading protests against the Supreme Court's September 28 verdict, and Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP).

The BJP is supporting the shutdown while the Congress-led UDF is observing a "black day" on Thursday.

Two women,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-women-pilgrims-made-to-return-from-lord-ayyappa-shrine-186126"> Kanakadurga (44) and Bindu (42)</a>, created history be stepping into the hallowed precincts guarded by police three months after the Supreme Court's historic judgement lifting the ban on entry of girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age into the shrine of Lord Ayyappa, its "eternally celibate" deity.

As the news spread like wildfire from the hill shrine, protests erupted at several places, with Hindu right-wing activists blocking highways and forcing closure of shops and markets.

BJP and CPI(M) workers clashed in front of the Secretariat for over five hours Wednesday as police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse them.

A 55-year-old man, who was seriously injured in stone throwing at Pandalam, died late Wednesday night.

Merchants' organisations have said they would not cooperate with the hartal and keep shops and business establishments open.

Meanwhile, state DGP Loknath Behara has warned of strict action against those indulging in violence during the hartal.

Various universities, including Kerala, Mahatma Gandhi, Calicut and Kannur have postponed their examinations scheduled for Thursday.&nbsp;

As per initial reports, auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers were plying at the railway station in the state capital and various other places.

A dawn-to-dusk 12-hour hartal called by Hindu outfits began Thursday morning in protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa. As per initial reports, auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers were plying at the railway station in the state capital and various other places. But in Kozhikode, protesters blocked vehicles and burnt tyres in the morning. The hartal, which began at 6 am, has been called by Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, spearheading protests against the Supreme Court's September 28 verdict, and Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP). The BJP is supporting the shutdown while the Congress-led UDF is observing a "black day" on Thursday. Two women, Kanakadurga (44) and Bindu (42), created history be stepping into the hallowed precincts guarded by police three months after the Supreme Court's historic judgement lifting the ban on entry of girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age into the shrine of Lord Ayyappa, its "eternally celibate" deity. As the news spread like wildfire from the hill shrine, protests erupted at several places, with Hindu right-wing activists blocking highways and forcing closure of shops and markets. BJP and CPI(M) workers clashed in front of the Secretariat for over five hours Wednesday as police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse them. A 55-year-old man, who was seriously injured in stone throwing at Pandalam, died late Wednesday night. Merchants' organisations have said they would not cooperate with the hartal and keep shops and business establishments open. Meanwhile, state DGP Loknath Behara has warned of strict action against those indulging in violence during the hartal. Various universities, including Kerala, Mahatma Gandhi, Calicut and Kannur have postponed their examinations scheduled for Thursday.

Kerala shutdown over entry of 2 women to Sabarimala temple, public transport hit

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday reacted over a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by Hindu outfits in various parts of the state.

Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, "Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order".

He added that "It is the government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility."&nbsp;

Vijayan then hit out at those calling the shutdown saying that "Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone."

He also said that the "Violence unleashed by them will be dealt with&nbsp;strongly."

A 12-hour shutdown has been called by Hindu outfits today to mark protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa on Wednesday.

The demonstrators today blocked roads,&nbsp;vandalised vehicles and burned&nbsp;tyres in the morning.

BJP workers and Sabarimala Karma Samiti along with other protestors also organised a march in various cities of Kerala.

Following the shutdown today, seven police vehicles and 79 KSRTC buses have been destroyed till now, Vijayan informed media.

"Thirty-nine police personnel have also been attacked out of which most were women,"&nbsp;Vijayan said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Kerala CM on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> issue: It's government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility. Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone. <a href="https://t.co/W5CaVQsnu7">pic.twitter.com/W5CaVQsnu7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1080704292338757632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The police, meanwhile, arrested two people and detained two others for attacking a Special Branch Women Police personnel on duty in the rural area of Ernakulam district last night, news agency ANI reported.

On Wednesday, two women, Bindu and Kanakdurga, both in their late 40s, entered Sabarimala temple to offer prayers following which the state witnessed a string of violent protests. Protestors pelted stones, raised slogans and hurled abuses against each other. Following the women's entry, the Lord Ayyappa temple was also shut down for an hour for ''purification" rituals.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court refused to accord urgent hearing on a contempt petition moved by a lawyers' group against Sabarimala temple authorities for closing the shrine following the women's entry into the temple.

Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, 'Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order'.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday reacted over a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by Hindu outfits in various parts of the state. Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, "Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order". He added that "It is the government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility." Vijayan then hit out at those calling the shutdown saying that "Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone." He also said that the "Violence unleashed by them will be dealt with strongly." A 12-hour shutdown has been called by Hindu outfits today to mark protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa on Wednesday. The demonstrators today blocked roads, vandalised vehicles and burned tyres in the morning. BJP workers and Sabarimala Karma Samiti along with other protestors also organised a march in various cities of Kerala. Following the shutdown today, seven police vehicles and 79 KSRTC buses have been destroyed till now, Vijayan informed media. "Thirty-nine police personnel have also been attacked out of which most were women," Vijayan said. Kerala CM on #SabarimalaTemple issue: It's government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility. Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone. pic.twitter.com/W5CaVQsnu7 — ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2019 × The police, meanwhile, arrested two people and detained two others for attacking a Special Branch Women Police personnel on duty in the rural area of Ernakulam district last night, news agency ANI reported. On Wednesday, two women, Bindu and Kanakdurga, both in their late 40s, entered Sabarimala temple to offer prayers following which the state witnessed a string of violent protests. Protestors pelted stones, raised slogans and hurled abuses against each other. Following the women's entry, the Lord Ayyappa temple was also shut down for an hour for ''purification" rituals. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court refused to accord urgent hearing on a contempt petition moved by a lawyers' group against Sabarimala temple authorities for closing the shrine following the women's entry into the temple.

We have fulfilled our responsibility, others are trying to make Sabarimala a clash zone: Kerala CM

sabarimala

Sabarimala, News on Sabarimala, stories on Sabarimala, articles on Sabarimala, Sabarimala stories at Wion, Sabarimala news, Sabarimala latest news