JUDGMENT :

1. The instant election petition has been filed on behalf of Pradeep Kumar Sonthalia (election petitioner) in terms of provisions of Sections 80 & 81 read with Sections 100 and 101 of the Representation of People Act, 1951 challenging the election of Dhiraj Prasad Sahu @ Diraj Sahu (respondent no. 1) pursuant to the notification issued by the Election Commission of India to hold Biennial Election to the Council of States-2018 for 16 States, as the term of office of 58 Members of the Rajya Sabha was due to expire on their retirement in April – May, 2018.

2. In the State of Jharkhand, two Members of Rajya Sabha were due to retire on 03.05.2018.

3. Accordingly, Election Commission of India by a press note as contained in letter No. ECI/PN/17/2018 dated 23.02.2018 issued under the signature of Shri Pawan Dewan, Under Secretary, Election Commission of India, declared the programme for election, which is as under: -