Deliberating on its two-decade-old judgement which declared “Hinduism” as a way of life, the Supreme Court, on Wednesday, asked if spiritual leaders who aren’t contesting polls seek votes for a particular party could be held accountable for “corrupt practices” under the electoral law. The seven-judge bench is examining the legal question of what constitutes electoral malpractices. He stressed that consent of the candidate was necessary if he was liable to be held for “corrupt practices,” warranting his or her disqualification. In his client’s case, he said, there was no consent. The leaders, it was alleged, had sought votes in the name of Hindutva and Hindu Rashtra.

Source: Hindustan Times October 19, 2016 18:45 UTC