Thiruvananthapuram, February 16 The Left government in Kerala said on Monday that the issue of women entering Sabarimala is one involving several constitutional complexities, and therefore, a suitable position would be taken through discussions.
Clarifying the government's stance, state Law Minister P Rajeev said it was not a matter that could be reduced to a "yes or no" answer, and even the Supreme Court had made it clear that it would only consider the review petitions after addressing seven constitutional questions.
"This is not a situation where a simple 'yes or no' can be stated. Several constitutional complexities are involved. All aspects need to be considered," he said, adding that the state government has enough time to clarify its position.
However, he said that the government is here to protect the faith of believers and will stand by them regardless of their beliefs.
He said that faith and social reform must go hand in hand, and reiterated that this had been the government's position in its affidavit before the court.
Rajeev said that the state government, in its earlier affidavit, had suggested constituting a commission of scholars with deep knowledge of Hindu beliefs and a record in social reform to study the women's entry issue, but the apex court did not consider it. However, he added that the government stands by its suggestions.
The minister maintained that the government had earlier acted in accordance with the Supreme Court's verdict on the issue.
"It was not a government order, but the Supreme Court verdict. The Supreme Court verdict is naturally binding. The same Supreme Court later decided to review it. Even then, the earlier verdict has not been stayed," Rajeev said.
The government did not take any firm stand after that, he said.
"We will present a good position before the Supreme Court after examining the constitutional aspects. We have ample time," he said, adding that a position would be taken after examining all aspects in detail.
The minister's remarks came soon after the Supreme Court said that a nine-judge bench will commence a final hearing on a batch of petitions relating to discrimination against women in religions and at religious places, including Kerala's Sabarimala Temple.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi said that the bench, which will be constituted by the CJI, will commence the crucial hearing on the petitions on April 7.
It said that the hearing is likely to conclude on April 22.
The bench asked the parties to file their written submissions on or before March 14.