ANANT BIJAY SINGH,J. - (1.) The instant election petition has been filed on behalf of Pradeep Kumar Sonthalia (election petitioner) in terms of provisions of Sections 80 and 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: - Sl. Subject of Programme Dates and Days Nos. 1. Issue of Notifications 05th March, 2018 (Monday) 2. Late Date of making nominations 12th March, 2018 (Monday) 3. Scrutiny of nominations 13th March, 2018 (Tuesday);