Judgment

SHINGHAL, J.:- This appeal by special leave is directed against the judgment of the Punjab and Haryana High Court dated Nov. 10, 1970, by which the writ petition of the appellants was dismissed on the ground that the promotions challenged by them were made on the basis of list "G" of 1966 when they had not qualified for promotion. It has therefore to be examined whether that view of the High Court is incorrect in the facts and circumstances of the case.

2. A list of dates bearing on the controversy has been furnished by Mr. Y. S. Chitale, learned counsel for the appellants, and we have been told by the learned counsel for the respondents that it is correct. The facts which emerge from that list may be stated briefly for learned counsel agree that they are quite sufficient for the disposal of the appeal.

3. All the three appellants were appointed Inspectors of Police, by direct recruitment, on May 21, 1963, on a probationary period of three years. At that time the Punjab Police Service Rules, 1959, hereinafter referred to as the Rules, were in force, providing for appointment to the higher post of Deputy Superintendent of Police. For purposes of this appeal, it will be suffici