JUDGMENT

ANAND, J.:—This appeal under Section 116-A of the Representation of People Act 1951 (hereinafter referred to as the Act), by two electors is directed against the judgment and order of a learned single Judge of the Nagpur Bench of the High Court of Judicature at Bombay dismissing the election petition. The returned candidate has also filed cross objections challenging those findings which have gone against him. Both shall be disposed of by this common judgment.

2. The appellants filed an election petition under S.80 of the Act challenging the election of respondent No. 1, Dattaji Raghobaji Meghe, the returned candidate from 23 Nagpur Parliamentary Constituency in the elections held for the Xth Lok Sabha and also sought a declaration to the effect that respondent No.2 Shri Banwarilal Bhagwandas Purohit be declared as the duly elected candidate from the said Constituency after setting aside the election of the returned candidate. The challenge to the election of respondent No.1 was mainly based on the allegations of commission of various corrupt practices by him and/or his election agent detailed in the petition.

3. Appellant No. 1 was at the relevant time the Vice President of