(1) THE short question raised in this appeal at the instance of the State of Andhra Pradesh by special leave is as to whether there can be a valid selection by the body constituted under government order dated 21/09/1976 when there is no quorum.

(2) THE short facts are that respondent 1. Dr Mohanjit Singh, appeared at a selection for the post of Principal in the N. M. College, Jogipet. At the meeting for this selection, the representative of the Director of Higher Education was not present, though two representatives of the management of the college and two professors of the University participated. The District Education Officer who was to represent the Director of the Higher Education was absent but he agreed with the selection by later ratifying the proceedings. The State Government did not accept the selection and since the respondent had already been appointed as Principal before the government order came he was reverted. The State Administrative tribunal having set aside the government order, this appeal has to be carried.

(3) THE government Order dated 21/09/1976, as far as relevant, provided:

TO ensure that the colleges do not suffer for want of te