LUCKNOW: In a big blow to Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav, Election Commission of India on Monday allotted cycle symbol and party name to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.

The EC announced its decision on the dispute between the factions led by Akhilesh and his father Mulayam Singh Yadav as the party is getting anxious about the delay.

Both the groups have laid claim to the “cycle” symbol.

In an interim order ahead of the crucial seven-phase Uttar Pradesh election, the poll panel said Akhilesh retains the most support within his party and hence is entitled to the symbol.

The Election Commission's legal experts looked into precedents and judgments before issuing the order. Sources said the Election Commission wanted to issue an order that could stand the test of courts.

The process of filing nominations for the first phase to be started from Tuesday. The seven-phase Uttar Pradesh election begins February 11 and ends on March 8. Results will be counted on March 11.

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