(1.) THESE two Election Petitions which have been filed under Sections 80/81 of The Representation of the People Act, 1951' (hereinafter referred to as the 'Act') call in question the election of the returned candidate Shambhu Chaudhary from 178, Naurangia Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly constituency. This constituency was reserved for a member of the Scheduled Castes. It is the contention of both the petitioners that the returned candidate does not belong to the Scheduled Castes.
(2.) THIRTEEN persons contested the said 2007 State Legislative Assembly election from 178, Naurangia reserved constituency. Shambhu Chaudhary secured 38,308 votes and was declared elected. Pooranmasi Dehati secured 35,118 votes while Chandra Dev Gautam secured 30,861 votes.
(3.) THE returned candidate has filed written statements in both the Election Petitions.