NEW DELHI: Vishwa Hindu Harishad (VHP) welcomed the Supreme Court ruling on Monday barring political parties and candidates from seeking votes in the name of religion, caste, community, race or language.
Welcoming the decision of the Supreme Court, VHPs Joint General Secretary Surendra Jain said politics based on caste, community and religion has harmed the country.
He also said that national integration has also been damaged by this practice.
"Vote bank politics would be curbed by this decision and the judgement will prove to be a landmark in nation-building," he said.
Jain said it is now the duty of the Election Commission to get it implemented in its letter and spirit.
"We appeal to the Election Commission to de-recognize the political parties and debar the candidates who violate any provision of this verdict," he said.
In a landmark verdict seeking to separate religion, caste and other issues from politics, the Supreme Court, by a majority verdict, today held as "corrupt" the practice of candidates appealing for votes on the basis of these identities included not only him but his agents and voters.