(1)The Court shall dismiss an election petition which does not comply with the provisions of section 165 or section 166 or section 191.Explanation. - An order of the court dismissing an election petition under this subsection shall be deemed to be an order made under clause (a) of section 176.(2)Where more election petitions than one are presented to the court in respect of the same election, the court may, in its discretion, try them separately or in one or more groups.(3)Any candidate not already a respondent shall, upon application made by him to the court within fourteen days from the date of commencement of the trial and subject to any order as to security for costs which may be made by the court, be entitled to be joined as a respondent.Explanation. - For the purposes of this sub-section and section 176 the trial of a petition shall be deemed to commence on the date fixed for the respondents to appear before the court and answer the claim or claims made in the petition.(4)The court may upon such terms as to cause and otherwise as it may deem fit, allow the particulars of any corrupt practice alleged in the petition to be amended or amplified in such manner, as may, in its opinion, be necessary for ensuring a fair and effective trial of the petition, but shall not allow any amendment of the petition which will have the effect of introducing particulars of a corrupt practice not previously alleged in the petition.(5)Every election petition shall be tried as expeditiously as possible and endeavour shall be made to conclude the trial within six months from the date on which the election petition is presented to the court for trial.
