JUDGMENT

S. C. AGRAWAL, J.:- In the Posts & Telegraphs Department of the Government of India, there were earlier two cadres : (i) Telegraphists in the pay scale of Rs. 110-240, and (ii) Telegraph Masters (for short TMs) in the pay scale of Rs. 210-380. There were certain posts known asallowanced postsof Assistant Telegraph Masters (ATMs), Testing Telegraphists (TTLs). and Teleprinter Supervisors (TPSs). Appointments to these allowanced posts were made from amongst Telegraphists on the basis of selection through had departmental examination and the selected candidates were required to undergo a training for a period of two months. They were paid an allowance (special pay) of Rs. 30/ - per month. In. 1968 as a result of, reorganisation, 75% of the allowanced posts of TTLs, TPSs and ATMs were merged into the post of ATM and the remaining 25% posts were abolished. Selection/appointment for the post of ATM was thereafter made on the basis of seniority-cum-fitness from amongst Telegraphists who wanted to volunteer for such posts. The requirement of training of two months was continued. The Telegraphists were entitled to extra benefits in the shape of incentives to which the ATMs were not