JUDGMENT

N. P. Singh. J.-The validity of an order dated 21.2.1992 passed by the Chief Election Commissioner of India withdrawing the recognition of Janata Dal (Samajwadi) as a national party, in exercise of the power vested in the Election Commission under paragraphs 6 and 7 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968 (hereinafter referred to as the Symbols Order ) is being questioned in this appeal.

2. The appellant was recognised as a national political party on 16.4.1991. The general elections to the Lok Sabha and to the Legislative Assemblies of the States of Assam, Haryana, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and the Union Territory of Pondicherry were held in the months of April-June, 1991. A statement showing the number of votes polled by the appellant at the aforesaid general elections held in the months of April-June, 1991 showing the performance of the appellant at the poll was prepared by the Election Commission and thereafter a show cause notice dated 4.12.1991 was issued to the appellant by the Election Commission as to why the recognition of the appellant as a national party should not be withdrawn under the provisions of the Symbols Orde