'Money, caste threat to democracy'

Money and caste politics that dictate elections pose a major hurdle to parliamentary democracy, said Governor Hans Raj Bhardwaj on Wednesday.

Speaking at the National Voters’ Day programme, he said: “The Election Commission of India played a crucial role in upholding the citizens’ faith in the country’s electoral system.” It has been discharging its duties sincerely since 1952 overcoming several hurdles. The institution of Election Commission, conducting of elections and various aspects associated with the process have undergone a sea change, he added.

The Governor said using caste as a poll plank was a crime under Article 123 (a) of the Constitution.