Judgement

K. N. SINGH, J. : - This appeal is directed against the order of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana dismissing the appellants petition made under Art. 226 of the Constitution challenging validity of the Punjab Governments Order dated 19-3-80 retiring the appellant prematurely from service.

2. The appellant after having obtained 1st Class M. Sc. (Technology) degree from Banaras Hindu University in 1950 was awarded Gandhi Memorial Scholarship by the Govt. for study and training in France for a period of three years. On his return from abroad he was appointed as Superintendent Quality Marking Centre (Scientific Instruments) of the Government of Punjab. In 1963 he was promoted to the post of Deputy Director (Technical). In 1968 he was promoted to the post of Joint Director (Industries), which post he continued to hold till he was prematurely retired by Government order dated 19th March, 1980 issued in exercise of power under Rule 3 of the Punjab Civil Services (Premature Retirement) Rules 1975 (hereinafter referred to as the Rules). The appellant made a representation against the order of premature retirement to the Government but the same was rejected, thereupon the appellan