India's top court bars politicians from seeking votes using religion, caste

India's Supreme Court ruled Monday that politicians can not seek votes in the name of caste, creed or religion.

The judgment came on the day of a crucial election in northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, which is communally sensitive.

Monday's judgment was passed by a seven-judge constitution bench headed by India's Chief Justice T.S. Thakur.

The court said any appeal for votes on the ground of religion amounts to corrupt practices under electoral laws.

According to the court, candidates who are found violating the law will be disqualified.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday campaigned for his party in Lucknow, the largest city in Uttar Pradesh, and addressed a huge rally.

Political analysts say caste and religion generally dominate polls in Uttar Pradesh. Endit