Swiss citizens go to the polls to decide on a conservative plan meant to ban the building of minarets amid anti-Islamic campaigns for the abolition of the Islamic symbol.

A national referendum is underway across Switzerland in order to determine the future construction of minarets, structures next to mosques for calling Muslims to prayers, which have been adamantly criticized by right-wing parties that deem the Islamic edifice as a 'symbol of radicalism.'

The rightist Swiss People Party launched the initiative after years of campaign against Muslim immigrants and foreigners.

However, the move drew ire nationwide as people and politicians reacted strongly to the bid, dubbing the latest anti-Islamic move 'disastrous' for the country's image and its economy.

A recent poll by the gfs.bern has pointed to a major opposition to the bill as over 53 percent of voters rejected the controversial minaret ban scheme.

Anti-Islamic groups with apparent links to the ultra-right party have recently stepped up their campaigns and, in some incidents, vandalized a mosque in Geneva.

Analysts have identified a growth in the number of Muslims across Europe as a reason behind the latest campaign.

Over 400 thousand Muslims make up around six percent of the nation's 7.5 million population.

GHN/MMA