( 1 ) THIS appeal involves the question regarding inter se seniority of promotees and direct recruits. The posts in question are of District Food and Supplies Controller (for short controller) and the Deputy Director, Food and Supplies (for short deputy Director) in the State of Punjab, governed by the Punjab Food and Supplies Department (State Service Cass II) Rules, 1966 (hereinafter referred to as the Rules ). Rule 6 (l) (g) of the Rules provides for appointment on the post of Controller - (/) by promotion of District Food and Supplies Officer or Superintendent in the Department, (ii)by transfer of Administrative Officer, Food and Supplies, and (iii) by direct appointment. It further provides that 33% vacancies shall be filled by direct appointment. The appointment for the post of Deputy Director is governed by Rule 6 (l) (a) The said appointment is made (i) by promotion of the Assistant Director, food and Supplies/district Food and Supplies Controllers/administrative Officer or officer on Special Duty, (ii)by promotion Of Accounts Officer. Food and Supplies or Assistant Controller of end Accounts, and (iii by transfer of an officer already in the service government of India or