#SabarimalaVerdict: Supreme Court to hear review petitions on November 13
What's the story
The Supreme Court has said that it will hear the 19 review petitions challenging its landmark verdict on the Sabarimala temple entry case on November 13.
The announcement comes at a time when the apex court's verdict, despite support from the Kerala government, proved to be ineffective in facilitating the entry of women aged 10-50 years to the 800-year-old Sabarimala temple.
Here's more.
Context
Backstory: Chaos had gripped Kerala following the Supreme Court's verdict
Following the Supreme Court's September 28 verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages to the shrine, the Kerala government had planned on fully implementing the verdict.
However, thousands of Ayyappa devotees started protesting, and subsequent clashes between protesters and police left Kerala on the edge.
Protesters attacked several journalists too, and prevented any attempts by women by to enter the shrine.
Timing
The timing of the hearings are very important
In the month of October, the Sabarimala temple opened its doors for six days - from October 17 to October 22 - and chaos ensued.
The temple is set to open briefly again on the evening of November 5, before its doors are opened on November 17 for the three-month-long Mandalam Makaravilakku celebrations, which attract lakhs of Ayyappa devotees from India and abroad.
Verdict
Religion vs Rule of Law, Women's Rights: Who will win?
Given the issue's sensitive nature, the Supreme Court's November 13 verdict will prove to be crucial.
If the apex court does not overturn its decision, Kerala could be plunged into chaos and violence during the three-month-long period when the temple will remain open.
If the SC does overturn it's decision, it will be a dark day for women's rights and the rule of law.