HELEN VALENTINE Vs. THE KERALA PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION,

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THE petitioner is an applicant to the post of H.S.A. (English) for which the Public Service Commission published a notification dated 3.4.2003. She is a graduate in Chemistry and acquired Post Graduation in English Literature from Kerala University. She acquired B.Ed. degree in English from Annamalai University by distance education.

(2.) THE petitioner was called for a written test and in accordance with the eligibility she was included in the short list of eligible candidates to be called for the interview. Accordingly, she was directed to appear for the interview as per Ext.P3. On the date of interview, she was directed to produce an equivalency certificate from any of the Universities in Kerala to prove that the B.Ed. qualification obtained by her is recognised by any of the Universities in Kerala. She did not succeed in the said endeavour and thereafter submitted Ext.P4 representation before the Chairman of the Public Service Commission in the matter. By Ext.P5 communication, the Commission informed her that as the B.Ed. degree obtained by her is not one recognised by any of the Universities in Kerala, her application is not liable to be considered.

(3.) ON behalf of respondents 1 and 2, a counter affidavit has been filed, wherein it is pointed out that going by the qualifications prescribed as per the Gazette notification, B.Ed. with English as optional subject should be one conferred or recognised by any of the Universities in Kerala and in the absence of the same, the petitioner cannot be said to be eligible. As there is no recognition for the course undergone by the petitioner from any of the Universities in Kerala and as she has failed to produce equivalency certificate in spite of giving an opportunity, the rejection of the application is perfectly justified.