SURESH S/O SUKHDEO WANKHEDE Vs. DISTRICT CASTE CERTIFICATE SCRUTINY COMMITTEE NO 2, AKOLA, THROUGH ITS MEMBER / SECRETARY

JUDGEMENT

(1.) We have heard learned respective Counsel for petitioners and learned A.G.Ps., for respondent nos. 1 to 3. Though in few matters, Gram Panchayat concerned has been added as respondent no.4/5, either it is still not served or then though served there is no appearance for it. It is not a necessary party to the present petitions.

(2.) Considering the nature of controversy and short point involved, which at this stage arises for consideration, with the consent of the parties, we have taken up the matters for final hearing. Rule accordingly issued is made returnable forthwith.

(3.) It is not in dispute that in all these matters, caste claims need to be verified by adopting the procedure stipulated in the Maharashtra Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Denotified Tribes (Vimukta Jatis), Nomadic Tribes, Other Backward Classes and Special Backward Category (Regulation of Issuance and Verification of) Caste Certificates Rules, 2012 (hereinafter referred to as "the 2012 Rules" for short).