On Wednesday, the Supreme Court observed that Hinduism is a “way of life” and clarified that a person does not cease to be Hindu merely for not visiting temples or performing rituals. The significant remarks came during the ongoing Constitution Bench hearing in matters concerning women’s entry into religious places, including the Sabarimala Temple dispute, and wider questions surrounding religious freedom across faiths.
The remarks came from a Nine-Judge Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant while hearing submissions on social reform within religious communities. During the proceedings, Senior advocate Dr G Mohan Gopal questioned earlier judicial formulations defining Hindu identity through acceptance of the Vedas as the highest spiritual authority.
Responding to the discussion, Justice B V Nagarathna observed that Hinduism has long been understood as a “way of life” rather than a faith confined to rituals or institutional worship. The Bench noted that individuals cannot be compelled into ritualistic practices to establish their religious identity and that personal faith may manifest in different forms without interference.
The Court underlined that religious belief cannot be reduced to mandatory temple visits or prescribed ceremonies. Justice Nagarathna stated, “It is not necessary for a Hindu to mandatorily go to a temple or perform a ritual in order to remain a Hindu.” Chief Justice Surya Kant further remarked, “Even if an individual lights a lamp inside his hut is enough to prove his religion.” The Bench’s remarks came in the context of ongoing arguments over constitutional scrutiny of religious practices and the extent to which courts can examine faith-based customs.
The hearing in the batch of matters is continuing before the Constitution Bench.
Source PTI
Picture Source :
