Muslim Law Board Says No restriction On Women Entering Mosques, But Can't Insist On Main Door Entry

Last Updated:April 24, 2026, 14:59 IST

The argument came in the context of a writ petition seeking a declaration that women should be allowed to pray in mosques without restrictions.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Friday told the Supreme Court that there is no restriction on Muslim women entering mosques to offer namaz. However, the board clarified that the women cannot insist on entering through a particular door or seek the removal of barriers separating men and women.

The submissions came while the nine-judge Constitution Bench was hearing issues arising from the Sabarimala reference.

Appearing for the AIMPLB, Senior Advocate MR Shamshad said Islam is a thoroughly written religion with clear and detailed guidance on what is forbidden, mandatory, and recommended.

He stated that religious practices under Islam are well classified and this structure must be properly understood while applying the ERP test.

Shamshad further speaking on the issue of women entering the mosques said that there is no dispute among Islamic denominations that Muslim women are permitted to enter mosques and offer prayers.

“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," Shamshad said to the bench.

He clarified that while Islam does not bar women from visiting mosques, they cannot insist on entering through the main door or demand the removal of physical barriers separating men and women inside mosques.

The argument came in the context of a writ petition seeking a declaration that women should be allowed to pray in mosques without restrictions.

Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, who was part of the 9-judge bench, observed that since the start, there has been no dispute on women entering mosques and noted that the practice dates back to the time of the Prophet. Agreeing to this, Shamshad said that the Prophet had clearly stated that women should not be stopped from coming to mosques.

He further submitted that while it is obligatory for men to participate in congregational prayers, it is not mandatory for women. According to him, it is preferable for women to pray at home, where they receive the same religious reward. However, if a woman chooses to go to a mosque, she is permitted to do so.

Chief Justice Surya Kant also asked if women could be part of the congregation if they enter a mosque. Replying to the CJI, Shamshad clarified that women do participate in congregational prayers when they attend mosques.

“Except that she can’t be part of the congregation?" CJI 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," Shamshad stated.

Shamshad added that it is “not preferable" for a woman to attend the congregation in the mosque.

News india Muslim Law Board Says No restriction On Women Entering Mosques, But Can't Insist On Main Door Entry

Read More