Sabarimala A ‘Secular Temple’, Cannot Restrict Entry Of Non-Hindus: Communist Government To Kerala HC

The Communist Government in Kerala has told the Kerala High Court (HC) that Sabarimala is a ‘secular temple’ and entry of devotees cannot be limited on the ground of religion, reports Live Law.

The government statement was in response to a plea that demanded a ban on the entry of non-Hindus to the Sabarimala shrine. The plea filed by T G Mohandas, a lawyer, contending that allowing non-Hindus and non-idol worshipers to enter into the Sannidhanam of Lord Ayyappa violates Rule 3 of Kerala Places of Public Worship (Authorisation of Entry) Act, 1965.

Kerala High Court had earlier adjourned its hearing on the petition on 29 October and had asked the state government to respond to it.

“It is a historically accepted fact that Sabarimala is a secular temple where entry of devotees is not restricted on the ground of any caste or religion", the government stated in its preliminary objection statement.

The government has also said in its response that Waqf Board, Vavar Trust and Christian and Muslim organisations are to be heard in the case.

Also Read: Petition Seeking Ban On Non-Hindus In Sabarimala: Kerala HC Seeks State Government’s Response