RAJINDER KUMAR Vs. STATE OF PUNJAB

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Before we might proceed any further in this matter, we would like to mention here that both these petitions, bearing Nos. 7781 of 1997 and 188848 of 1996 were listed together from time to time and on February 3, 1999, after hearing arguments in C.W.P.No. 188848 of 1996 we had dismissed the same. Before we could, however, take up next matter in the cause list, counsel representing petitioner in C.W.P.No. 7781 of 1997, who was earlier not present, came and sought permission to address arguments. Since arguments could not be heard in C.W.P.No. 7781 of 1997 on that day, both writ petitions were adjourned by specifically observing, orally in the Court, that even though we had dictated orders in Court in C.W.P.No. 188848 of 1996, same shall also stand adjourned. In the facts and circumstances, as have been fully detailed above, typed order dated February 3, 1999 is still on records of the case with all its grammatical mistakes and naturally without signatures by us.

(2.) These writ petitions thereafter were being adjourned from time to time for variety of reasons, like, either the counsel representing the parties were not available or there being a new roster, the Special Bench could meet only on Fridays. In this manner, almost a year has gone by.

(3.) By this order, we propose to dispose of aforesaid two writ petitions as common questions of law and fact are involved therein. Inasmuch as Mr. Sibal, learned counsel representing petitioner in C.W.P.No. 7781 of 1997 has addressed arguments on January 28, 2000, the date when judgment was reserved, brief facts for the purposes of deciding these petitions, have been taken from the said writ.