KARACHI, Nov 15: A Sindh High Court tribunal dismissed on Saturday a petition moved by former National Assembly Speaker Ilahi Bux Soomro of PML-Q against the election of Ejaz Hussain Jakhrani of the PPPP from NA-208 (Jacobabad).

The petitioner alleged widespread rigging and malpractices in the constituency which resulted in his defeat.

Justice Amir Hani Muslim, who constituted the election tribunal, observed that the petitioner has to prove allegations beyond a reasonable doubt in an electoral challenge just as the prosecution must establish its case beyond a shadow of doubt in a criminal trial. The benefit of doubt goes to respondent in election proceedings just as it goes to accused in criminal trial. The petitioner in the instant case has failed to substantiate his allegations. The petition merits dismissal with no order as to costs, he ruled.