(1.) PETITIONERS in these writ petitions are claiming the benefit of Rule 5A of the Kerala State & Subordinate Services Rules (Hereinafter referred to as the "Rules" for short). In WP (C) No. 11650/11, there is also an alternative prayer to declare the Rule unconstitutional.
(2.) ISSUES raised being common, these cases were heard together and are disposed of by this common judgment.
(3.) THE Explanatory Note to this notification, being relevant, reads as follows: