Mosque entry row: AIMPLB says women permitted but rules apply
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board on Friday told the Supreme Court of India that Muslim women are allowed to enter mosques and offer namaz, but cannot insist on entering through a specific door or seek removal of barriers separating men and women.
The submissions were made before a nine-judge Constitution Bench hearing matters linked to the Sabarimala case.
‘No dispute on women entering mosques’
Senior advocate MR Shamshad, appearing for the AIMPLB, said Islamic practices are clearly defined and must be understood properly when applying legal tests.
“There is no quarrel among religious denominations in Islam that women can enter mosques, and that too for prayer. But there is certain discipline that has to be followed,” he told the bench.
He added that while women are permitted entry, they cannot demand access through the main door or removal of physical separations inside mosques.
Participation allowed, but not mandatory
Shamshad clarified that women who visit mosques can take part in congregational prayers.
“Except that she can’t be part of the congregation?” the bench asked. “No, they will be a part of the congregation. If they are going to a mosque, the purpose is to participate in the congregation, and that is permitted,” he said.
However, he noted that participation in congregational namaz is not obligatory for women and is considered preferable at home, though visiting mosques remains permissible.
Court observations during hearing
Chief Justice Surya Kant sought clarity on women’s access to mosques, while Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah observed that historically there has been no dispute on women entering mosques.
Shamshad agreed, stating that teachings from the time of the Prophet support women’s access to mosques.
Context of the case
The submissions came in response to a petition seeking unrestricted access for women to pray in mosques. The broader hearing is examining the scope of religious practices and rights under the Constitution.
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