Mumbai (The Hindu): Opposition members in Maharashtra Legislative Council on Monday slammed the BJP-led government for not facilitating the entry of women into the core area of Shani Shingnapur temple, despite the Bombay High Court’s ruling on ending gender discrimination at places of worship.

The Opposition attack comes two days after a group of women was stopped by villagers, and later detained by the police, when they tried to enter the core area of the temple, in Ahmednagar district.

In the Council, Opposition members stalled the proceedings and sought an explanation from the government.

Soon after the Question Hour was over, Sanjay Dutt (Congress) sought to move an adjournment motion, but his plea was rejected by Council Chairman Ramraje Nimbalkar.

Speaking on the admissibility of the motion, Dutt contended that the government had given an undertaking to the HC saying it will allow women access to the core area of the shrine.

“The government ought to have taken precautions after the Bombay High Court ruled that it is the fundamental right of women to enter places of worship. Not doing so has exposed its (government’s) double standards,” he said.

Leader of Opposition and NCP member Dhananjay Munde said following the April 1 order, the government should have ensured women get access to the core area.

“Not honouring the HC’s verdict amounts to contempt of court,” he said.

Vidya Chavan (NCP) alleged the government was functioning on the directions of some right wing oufits.

Making an intervention, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Girish Bapat said, “The Chief Minister has already made it clear the government will not oppose entry of women into the (Shani) temple.”—PTI

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