(1.) This petition was heard by the Division Bench on 7/12/2022. After considering the extensive submissions of the learned Advocates for the respective sides, the following order was passed:-
(2.) The issue referred to our Full Bench is 'whether, clause E can be said to have been declared unconstitutional for all purposes and in it's entirety'.
(3.) The learned Advocate for the Petitioners contended that clause E of the Government Resolution dtd. 28/3/2001 was rightly held as being unconstitutional, by the Division Bench in Kashabai (supra). Once such a conclusion is drawn, the said clause loses it's efficacy and cannot be pressed into service. Since this declaration was not brought to the notice of the Division Bench in Bhagyashree (supra), the view taken in the latter judgment will have to be treated as being per incuriam. He further submits that the State of Maharashtra introduced "The Maharashtra Civil Services (Declaration of Small Family) Rules, 2005" (for short, "the Rules of 2005"). In view of the proviso below Rule 3 of the Rules of 2005, Petitioner no.2 cannot be disqualified for appointment on compassionate basis as the said Rules were introduced on 28/3/2005 and therefore, that date becomes the cut off date. After this cut off date, the number of children of the Petitioner no.1, have not grown.