New Delhi : Thursday Hearing a major discussion took place in the Supreme Court as the All India Muslim Personal Law Board shared its stand on women offering namaz (prayers). The Board clearly told the court that there is no restriction on women offering namaz, but praying at home is considered better for them.
During the hearing, senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan argued that women are allowed to go to mosques and offer prayers, and they can be part of the congregation (jamaat).
However, the court also heard different views: S. Abdul Nazeer pointed out a practical concern if everyone in the house goes to the mosque, who will take care of the children? Justice B. V. Nagarathna said that in Islam, it is not compulsory for women to offer namaz in mosques.
Dhavan further explained that religious practices vary depending on beliefs and situations, and courts should avoid interfering in such matters. He stressed that questions of faith should be left to religious scholars and followers. Referring to the Sabarimala verdict, he highlighted that while mosques are an important part of Islam, offering namaz is possible anywhere, even in open spaces so the mosque is not strictly mandatory.
Justice Nagarathna compared this logic, saying it’s like claiming temples are not essential in Hinduism showing how sensitive such interpretations can be. Next hearing is scheduled for April 28.
