The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed concern that frequent judicial intervention in religious matters could undermine India's civilisational identity, where faith remains deeply connected to society.
A nine-judge bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant heard arguments linked to the Sabarimala temple entry case and related issues involving the Dawoodi Bohra community.
Justice B V Nagarathna noted that religion forms a constant in Indian society. She questioned whether repeated challenges to religious practices before constitutional courts would harm the nation's civilisational character.
Senior Advocate Raju Ramachandran argued that excommunication practices violate fundamental rights. The bench examined whether such powers are protected under Article 26(b) of the Constitution.
Justice M M Sundresh observed that courts risk being drawn into endless disputes if every religious matter is questioned. Arguments will continue next week.
