Overview
- New signboards at the Observatory Hill shrine state that “ladies wearing short skirts/dress” are not permitted inside.
- Visitors in short outfits can borrow long skirts by depositing Rs 100, of which Rs 25 is kept as a usage fee and Rs 75 is refunded on return.
- Temple officials say proceeds from the rentals will fund philanthropic work, including support for cancer and tuberculosis patients and education for underprivileged children.
- The rule has drawn online criticism that it applies only to women, with many questioning the absence of a similar restriction for men in shorts.
- The Mahakal Mandir Puja and Welfare Committee describes the measure as a trial and says it will review public feedback before making any changes.