The Shani Shingnapur Temple is in the midst of a raging controversy following the failed attempt by a group of women to enter the sanctum sanctorum. The controversy started late last year when a young woman went against tradition and performed an abhishek. The idol was, as decided by the cabal of traditionalists, ‘purified’ through another abhishek.

Already, we have seen prominent voices speaking against the practice of banning women from entering temples. It was also gladdening to see Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis come out and say there should be no discrimination when it comes to praying to god. If the CM is as good as his word, the state should first facilitate a dialogue and interaction between women’s groups, rights activists, temple authorities and villagers.