(1.) Heard Sri J. Sudheer, learned counsel for the petitioners, Sri M. R. Tagore, learned counsel f or responden3 to 11, Sri V. Naga Praveen, learned counsel for respondents Nos.12 and 13, and learned AGP for Services - II, for respondents Nos.1 and 2.
(2.) This writ petition has been filed for the following relief:
(3.) The petitioners' case is that the Andhra Pradesh Mining Service Rules 1998, (in short "the special rules") were issued vide G.O.Ms.No.59, Industries and Commerce (Mines-I), dated 10.03.1998. The A.P. Mining Service consisted of various categories of posts in which the post of Assistant Geologist was shown as Category - 11. As per the Special Rules, the post of Assistant Geologist could be filled up by direct recruitment and also by appointment by transfer from Royalty Inspectors under Rule 3 thereof.