BALRAJ MADHOK Vs. SHASHI BHUSHAN

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This petition has been mod by Balraj Madhok to challenge the election of Shashi Bhushan, respondent No. 1, to the Lok Sabha in the General Elections which were held in March, 1971. The other contesting candidates are respondents Nos. 2 to 8. In addition Madhu Ram Subharao. respondent No. 9, has been impleaded by the petitioner. Tiis nomination paper was, according to the allegations in the petition, improperly rejected. Respondent No. 1. the returned candidate, has filed his written statement in which, apart from the reply on merits, several preliminary objections have been raised. Respondent No. 6. Som Dutt Joshi, one of the contesting and defeated candidates has also filed a written statement. The petitioner has filed his replication to the written statement.

(2.) On July 16. 1971. seven Issues which were ordered to be treated as preliminary Tssues were framed and this order will dispose of the aforesaid preliminary Issues,

(3.) The following dates were fixed by the Election Commission for various matters in connection with the aforesaid election :-