Judgment :

Dr. Mukundakam Sharma, J.

1. Leave granted.

2. In this appeal, we are concerned with the issue regarding allotment of a Petrol Pump at Dhariwal, which was reserved for women candidate.

3. This appeal is filed against the Judgment and Order dated 01.02.2002 passed by a Division Bench of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, whereby the Writ Petition filed by the appellant was dismissed on the ground that there was no infirmity in the selection of fifth respondent for allotment of the Retail Outlet Dealership.

4. Indian Oil Corporation - respondent No. 1 herein issued an advertisement in the "Tribune" dated 22.06.2000 whereby allotment of Retail Outlet Dealership/SKO-LDU Dealership and LPG distributorship was advertised. In the said advertisement one retail outlet, which was to be set at Dhariwal was also advertised. In the said advertisement, it was mentioned that in respect of the locations reserved for women only, on receipt of their application for Retail Outlet Dealerships/SKO-LDO Dealerships/LPG Distributorship, other things being equal, preference would be given to unmarried women above 40 years of age and widows. It was also mentioned that the Oil Companies would also