B V SIVAIAH Vs. K ADDANKT BABU

JUDGEMENT

(1.) LEAVE granted in all Special LEAVE Petitions.

(2.) WHAT is meant by "seniority-cum-merit", the criterion prescribed for promotion to the post of Area Manager / Senior Manger in the Regional Rural Banks under the Regional Rural Banks(Appointment and Promotions of Officers and Other Employees) Rules, 1988 (hereinafter referred to as 'the Rules')? This is the common question which falls for consideration in these appeals.

(3.) PRIOR to the making of the Rules appointment on the post of Area / Senior Manger in Regional Rural Banks was governed by circulars issued by the Central Government and the National Bank. By circular dated 10/10/1987 addressed to the Deputy General Manager of the National bank, the Central Government indicated the criterion that was required to be followed in the matter of promotion of Branch Managers to the post of Area Mangers / Senior Managers in Regional Rural Banks in the following terms:-