‘In skirts or western clothes? View temple from outside’: Posters at 40 MP temples ask women to follow Indian dress code; activist says 'no one can dictate to us'

JABALPUR: "If you are wearing miniskirts, jeans-tops, or Western clothes, please view the temple from outside," say posters put up outside at least 40 temples in Jabalpur city.These posters, placed by a right-wing organisation, appeal to women and young girls to dress in accordance with Indian culture when entering temples.

The posters have become a topic of debate in the city.Reacting to them, advocate and women's rights activist Ranjana Kurariya said, “What clothes we wear is our right. We can wear a saree, salwar-kurta, or anything we feel comfortable in. Deciding what to wear is our right; no one can dictate that to us — not even request it. God is for everyone, be it women or men. Seeing such posters will hurt women who visit temples.”She further questioned the very notion of Indian culture, saying, “What is Indian culture? If we look back in time, stitched clothes weren’t even worn here — they were brought in from other countries.”The posters request that visitors wear attire in line with Indian culture while entering temple premises.Those wearing short clothes, half-pants, Bermudas, miniskirts, or night suits are asked to view the temple from outside. Girls and women are also requested to cover their heads upon entering. The posters emphasise that the message should not be taken otherwise, stating that preserving Indian culture is essential.

The Mahakal Sangh International Bajrang Dal is mentioned as the issuer.Ankit Mishra, district media in-charge of the International Bajrang Dal, said that the posters have been placed at 30 to 40 prominent temples in the city and are being extended to more. He stated that women play a leading role in religious activities and that preserving Indian culture is in their hands. He appealed to them to dress according to Indian tradition when visiting temples.The organisation behind the posters clarified that they are merely making a request to women and girls through this appeal.