Common symbols for Praja Rajyam, DMDK and Lok Satta

New Delhi, Mar 27 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Election Commission to allot common symbols to the Praja Rajyam, Lok Satta and Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) for upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

A bench headed by Chief Justice K. G. Balakrishnan, said that the directions were only for the present elections.

Praja Rayam founder Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi moved to the Supreme Court on March 20, challenging the EC's refusal to allot his new political party a symbol.

In his petition, the Telugu superstar claimed his party has a huge membership across Andhra Pradesh and denial of the common symbol would adversely affect the party's interests in the polls.

Chiranjeevi has sought rail engine as a common symbol for the party.

Under the election laws, parties have to secure a certain minimum number of votes for being accorded the status of "recognized political party". (ANI)