Congress pulls up Kerala Govt. for 'discrimination' against women

Trivandrum (Kerala): The Congress Party on Sunday criticised the Kerala Government's idea to conduct an opinion poll on whether to allow entry of women of all age groups inside the famous Lord Ayappa temple at Sabarimala and termed the move as discrimination against women.

Congress leader Bindu Krishna told ANI the Kerala Government's move to seek open referendum on the Sabarimala issue regarding the entry of women in Sabarimala temple is a deviation from their previous stand.

"This is pure discrimination against women. Sabarimala is a very progressive temple. It was the first temple, which allowed the people irrespective of caste, community or religion to worship. The government is supposed to back gender equality. When they were in opposition, they were fighting against gender discrimination. Now, that they are in power they are acting opposite," she added.

Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendra yesterday called for an open referendum in connection with whether women of all age groups should be allowed inside the Sabarimala temple.

"Government is prepared to conduct an opinion poll on the entry of women of all age groups at Sabarimala. A consensus on the issue is more important than court orders. A political decision on the matter will not help," he said.

The Kerala Government had earlier voiced not take any decision that would hurt the sentiments of anyone on the issue of entry of women of menstrual age in the temple.