S. B. SINHA, C. J.

( 1 ) A question seemingly of some importance viz. , as to whether a workman within the meaning of Industrial Disputes act would be debarred from contesting election under Panchayat Raj Act arises for consideration in the instant case. The petitioner herein works as a general mazdur in Singareni Collieries Company Limited. He contested the election for Mandal parishad Territorial Constituency post of kothagudem and won the same in the year 1995. He was also a representative in panchayat Raj body.

( 2 ) IN terms of the election notification dated 22-6-2001, he filed a nomination on 29-6-2001 before the Election Officer, mandal Parishad, Kothagudem but, the same was rejected stating that "with reference to your letter it is informed that your nomination application No. 173 for m. P. T. C. is rejected on the ground that you are employee in Singareni Collieries company Limited as per Section 18 clause (1) of the A. P. Panchayat Raj Act, 1994. " The petitioner preferred an appeal thereagainst. The same has not yet been disposed of. The petitioner contends that having regard to the provisions contained in Section 18 of the Act, he being a mazdur and having not been hol

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