Kerala Minister Advocates for Deliberate Approach on Sabarimala Women's Entry
In a significant statement, Kerala Higher Education Minister R Bindu declared on Tuesday that the state government will refrain from making any hasty decisions regarding the contentious issue of women's entry into the Sabarimala temple. Emphasizing the need for a measured and thoughtful process, Bindu highlighted that the administration aims to formulate a mature perspective after conducting extensive consultations with diverse sections of society.
Complexity of the Issue Requires Collective Decision-Making
Responding to media inquiries, Minister Bindu underscored the complexity of the Sabarimala women's entry matter, noting that it carries far-reaching implications for the social fabric of Kerala. She firmly stated that she cannot provide a unilateral stance on such a sensitive topic. "This is a very complex issue," Bindu explained. "We can take decisions on issues which can create social tension or precipitate a crisis only after considering all shades of views."
Bindu clarified that any decision must emerge from the state cabinet's collective deliberation, rather than individual opinions. "It has to be state cabinet's collective decision and I can't make an individual opinion," she asserted, reinforcing the government's commitment to a consultative and inclusive approach to avoid exacerbating social divisions.
Supreme Court Order and Political Dynamics
The minister pointed out that permission for women to enter Sabarimala was granted through a Supreme Court order, leaving no room for political parties to voice opinions on the legal aspect. However, she stressed the importance of identifying who had approached the Supreme Court initially, hinting at underlying political motivations behind the legal challenge.
Bindu accused the Congress party of attempting to exploit the women's entry issue and other Sabarimala-related matters for political gains. She alleged that efforts are underway to isolate the Left government under the pretext of the latest Supreme Court order, suggesting a strategic move by opposition forces to capitalize on the temple controversy.
Key Points from Minister Bindu's Statement:- The Kerala government will avoid rushed decisions on Sabarimala women's entry.
- Extensive societal consultations are essential before forming a policy stance.
- The issue requires a collective cabinet decision due to its social complexity.
- The Supreme Court's order on women's entry is legally binding, beyond political debate.
- Congress is allegedly politicizing the issue to target the Left government.
This development underscores the ongoing sensitivity surrounding Sabarimala, with the government treading carefully to balance legal mandates, social sentiments, and political pressures. Minister Bindu's remarks reflect a cautious strategy aimed at preventing further unrest while adhering to judicial directives.
