India, Oct. 15 -- The Supreme Court on Thursday issued notice to the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the three election commissioners on a petition filed by Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and 12 other INDIA bloc leaders seeking an independent inquiry into alleged electoral irregularities and the functioning of the poll panel.

A bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, however, issued a provisional notice in respect of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Mahua Maji - a co-petitioner in the same petition -- taking exception to some statements made by Maji.

"Respondent no. 9 will have to explain her statements and conduct," the bench clarified.

The petition, which seeks a tim...