However, CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury came out strongly against the verdict, saying, “This is an abnormal situation that needs to be corrected.
“Elections after all are the direct contribution of our parliamentary democracy. Neither the judiciary nor the Election Commission participates in the elections. It is the political parties which participate. Without even talking to them deciding like this, it is not a good sign,” he said.
Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somanth Chatterjee also opposed the verdict, maintaining, “The Supreme Court has given its judgement, I don't think it is correct.” Welcoming the judgement, BSP chief Mayawati said, “Babasaheb Ambedkar was also in favour of right to reject.”
In a landmark verdict, the apex court today held that citizens have right to cast negative vote rejecting all candidates contesting polls, a decision which would encourage people not satisfied with contestants to turn up for voting.
