Religious freedom cases

Judgment delivered5 months ago

Sabarimala temple entry — Supreme Court review proceedings

A Supreme Court Constitution Bench ruled 4–1 that the Sabarimala temple’s ban on women of menstruating age was unconstitutional; Justice Indu Malhotra dissented, holding that courts should not decide which religious practices to strike down. The matter is back before the court in review proceedings, where in April 2026 the Centre questioned whether courts can determine what is an essential religious practice.

ConstitutionalReligious freedom

5Court matter

Judgment delivered4 years ago

Aishat Shifa vs State of Karnataka — Hijab ban case

The Supreme Court delivered a split verdict regarding the validity of a ban on wearing hijabs in educational institutions in Karnataka. The matter was referred to a larger bench due to the difference of opinion between the two judges.

Constitutional lawEducationReligious freedom

Karnataka2Court matter

On trial5 years ago

All India Muslim Personal Law Board vs State of Karnataka — Hijab ban case

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board and other petitioners challenged the Karnataka High Court's judgment, which upheld the state government's ban on wearing hijabs in educational institutions. The petitioners argue that the hijab is an essential religious practice, while the High Court ruled it is not protected under Article 25 of the Constitution.

Constitutional lawReligious freedom

Karnataka4Court matter