Shirur Mutt case judgement of 1954, which was recently in news, is related to:
Last updated May 13, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option D —
The doctrine of essential religious practices
The Shirur Mutt case (1954), officially known as The Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras v. Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Sri Shirur Mutt, is a landmark judgment in Indian constitutional law.
In this case, a seven-judge bench of the Supreme Court introduced the "Essential Religious Practices" (ERP) doctrine. The court ruled that "religion" under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution covers not only ethical/philosophical beliefs but also rituals and practices that are regarded as "essential" to that religion.
Why it was recently in the news:
The doctrine remains a point of intense judicial debate. It was the primary legal lens used in high-profile contemporary cases, such as:
The Sabarimala Temple entry case.
The Hijab controversy in Karnataka.
The Talaq-e-Biddat (Triple Talaq) case.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
