Supreme Court seeks EC’s response on Gujarat Congress plea against its decision to hold separate bypolls for 2 RS seats

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a response from the Election Commission by June 24 on a plea of the Gujarat Congress, challenging the poll panel’s decision to hold separate bypolls to two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.nnA vacation bench of justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant listed the matter for hearing on June 25, saying the issue required to be heard.nnThe bench said, “It is not an issue which can be taken up through an election petition and therefore, requires to be heard.”nnSenior advocate Vivek Tankha, appearing for the Gujarat Congress, said there were judgments of the Delhi High court which were in their favour.nnTo this, the bench said, “We are not saying anything for now. We need to decide whether it is a casual vacancy or a statutory vacancy. This matter requires hearing.”nnThe Rajya Sabha seats fell vacant following the election of BJP chief Amit Shah and Union minister Smriti Irani to the Lok Sabha from Gandhinagar and Amethi respectively.nnSource: Press Trust of India