Supreme Court allows women officials to wear traditional attire for Karwa Chauth; UP women inmates to celebrate with spouses

Karwa Chauth will be celebrated on October 10. (Image: Canva)

The Supreme Court has permitted its women staff members to wear traditional, sober attire on Friday, October 10, in observance of the Karwa Chauth festival, LiveLaw reported, citing an official circular.

“On the occasion of Karwa Chauth festival, the Competent Authority has been pleased to accede to the request received on behalf of female employees of the Registry, and to permit them to attend the office in traditional sober clothes on 10th October, 2025, in place of the prescribed uniform,” the circular stated.

Karwa Chauth, also known as Karaka Chaturthi, will be celebrated across India on October 10. On this day, Hindu women observe a day-long fast and pray for their husbands’ long life, health, and well-being. The festival is marked by vibrant traditional wear such as sarees, lehengas, and salwar suits in festive colours like red, pink, and maroon.

Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh, the State Women’s Commission has decided to allow female inmates in district jails to celebrate Karwa Chauth with their husbands, reported PTI.

The move was approved under Section 9 of the Uttar Pradesh State Women's Commission (Amendment) Act, 2013, which empowers the commission to safeguard the emotional and familial rights of women, even while in confinement.

“Karwa Chauth is more than just a ritual fast; it is a festival that symbolises love, devotion, and faith,” said Commission Chairperson Babita Singh Chauhan. She added that the initiative aims to “rekindle the spirit of affection, respect, and emotional bonds, even within prison walls.”

“Women's rights are not only legal but also emotional and social. The commission is equally committed to protecting all these aspects,” Chauhan added.

The commission has also written to district magistrates, directing them to make arrangements for eligible female inmates to observe the festival with their spouses. Additionally, the commission has urged that wives of male inmates be allowed to join their husbands inside jails for the celebration.