This refers to the report, “Can’t seek votes on religion, caste: SC” (January 3). The Supreme Court’s ruling, barring politicians from seeking votes in the name of religion, race, community, caste or religion, is welcome. Henceforth, any such appeal by a candidate will amount to corrupt practice and the election of the candidate is liable to be set aside. The Bench also refused to re-visit the 1995 apex court’s ruling defining Hindutva as a lifestyle, not religion. The landmark verdict is a decisive blow to contemporary vote-bank politics of cast, community, and religion and will definitely have a cleansing effect.
Political parties had until now set their election strategies on the strength of cast, community, and religion of the voters. There are parties who get issued appeals and fatwas in their favour from religious leaders before elections. All this would now amount to corrupt practice and make the election of a candidate liable to be set aside. The welcome verdict strengthens the Election Commission’s hand in ensuring free and fair elections.