<h1>Woman activist excluded from government-linked shrine celebration over 2019 temple entry, reigniting debate on access and rituals</h1> A state minister stated a woman activist who entered the temple in 2019 will be excluded from a government-linked shrine celebration organized by the temple board, asserting invitations target regular devotees and representatives of recognized outfits. The refusal follows the activist's expressed desire to attend and revives political debate over prior government and board positions permitting women's entry to the shrine. Opposition parties and community organizations have criticized or supported the event, some urging the board to revisit past legal stances; others stress protecting rituals and devotees' interests while promoting pilgrimage-related economic activity.