Supreme Court Bars Political Parties From Using Religion to Seek Votes

The Supreme Court of India. (File photo)

New Delhi: In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court on Monday said that political parties can’t seek votes in the name of religion.

The court said that parties have to abide by the tenets of the constitution.

The order was passed by a panel of seven judges.

The verdict said: “Relationship between man and God is an independent choice”

The SC verdict could have a huge impact in the upcoming assembly election in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Acting to the news, NCP leader Majeed Memon said that the BJP could suffer a setback since they were planning to the bring up the Ram Mandir issue.

“Local police and EC should be alert about the kind of speeches that will be given in the coming months,” Memon added.

BJP leader Subramaniam Swamy, however, said that the ruling has nothing to do with the BJP as the party has never sought vote on the basis of religion.

“Hinduism is a way of life and the BJP will continue to play the Hindutva card,” he said.