High Court Rejects Plea to Make Karwa Chauth Mandatory for All Women

Punjab and Haryana High Court has dismissed a petition seeking to make Karwa Chauth Compulsory for all the women irrespective of their marital status. Karwa Chauth is a traditional Indian festival celebrated by married woman in which the women fast whole day for the long life of the husband.

A Plea for Inclusivity

The petitioner had argued that the festival was not inclusive enough, as widows, divorcees, separated women, and those in live-in relationships were often excluded from participating. He sought to amend the law to make participation compulsory and punishable for those who denied participation. 

The Court's Verdict

However, the Division Bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel observed that the matter fell under the "exclusive domain of the legislature" and declined to interfere. The court noted that the petitioner's grievance was that certain sections of women were not allowed to perform Karwa Chauth rituals, but making it compulsory would require a legislative amendment.

The court dismissed the petition with a token cost of Rs 1,000 to be deposited by the petitioner with the poor patient welfare fund, PGIMER, Chandigarh. 

Implications of the Ruling

The ruling highlights the importance of respecting individual choices and traditions. While Karwa Chauth is an important festival for many married women, making it compulsory for all women could be seen as an infringement on their rights and freedoms.