In that context it was observed that the issue of a writ of certiorari is a matter of sound discretion, and that 'the writ will not be granted if there is such negligence or omission on the part of the applicant to assert his right as taken in conjunction with the lapse of time and other circumstances, causes prejudice to the adverse party. ' It was observed, that the exercise of discretion under Article 226 to issue a writ of certiorari is based on the principle to a great extent, though not identical with, similar to the exercise of discretion in the Court of Chancery. ' For this principle, involving the doctrine of laches in courts of equity, reference was made to the observation of Sir Barnes Peacock in Lindsay Petroleum Co. The decision was followed in, and the principle reitered in Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation again in the context of the discretion under article 226 of the Constitution to issue a %Wit of certiorari.