JUDGMENT

Rajendra Babu, J.-Leave granted in all the SLPs.

2. The appellant-State issued a notification on 5.1.2001 regarding admission to post graduate medical courses in the State of Punjab. 60 of the seats in such courses were reserved for eligible candidates in Service, while 40 of the seats were kept open to all eligible candidates who were residents of the State of Punjab. Clause 5 thereto, which provides for determination of merit and eligibility for admission, reads as under:

"1. IN CASE OF MEDICAL/DENTAL COLLEGES:

(a) The merit of the candidates will be determined by the University by holding the Postgraduate Entrance Test of eligible candidates, for admission to three years degree courses for the session 2001.

(b) There will be separate merit lit for in service 60 quota candidates for Government Medical/Dental Colleges and a separate merit list for remaining who are not covered under in service category candidates. The merit list for open and reserve candidates will be combined and reserve candidates will be eligible for open seats also, as per their merit.

(c) Interview is compulsory for all candidates applying for the p