Archive · 24 Jul 2026
California Judge Strikes Down Diwali Holiday Law
A judge in California has decided to cancel parts of a law that made Diwali an official holiday in the state.
This law was made to help people who celebrate Diwali, like Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists, to take time off without any problems.
The judge said the law had some issues with religious words.
The Hindu American Foundation, which supports this law, says it's a setback but they will keep fighting for the rights of people who celebrate Diwali.
They are not sure yet if they will appeal the decision.
A California judge struck down parts of the state's Diwali holiday law.
The law was signed in October 2025 and recognized Diwali as an official state holiday.
The law allowed state employees to use paid leave and schools to close for Diwali.
The Hindu American Foundation described the ruling as a setback.
The foundation is monitoring the case and may appeal the decision.
- Who
- California judge, Hindu American Foundation
- What
- Striking down parts of California's Diwali holiday law
- When
- July 23, 2026
- Where
- California, USA
- Why
- Over religious wording in the law
Hindu American Foundation
California Judge
Purpose of the Law
Hindu American Foundation
The law allows students and employees to observe Diwali without penalty.
California Judge
The judge struck down parts of the law over religious wording.
- Date of Ruling
- July 23, 2026
- State
- California
- Law Signed
- October 2025
- Affected Communities
- Hindu Americans, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists
- Impact
- Parts of the law invalidated, future uncertain