The petitioner joined as Junior Engineer E1-Grade, in the service of the Singareni Collieries, in the year 1975. He was promoted to the post of Assistant Engineer E2-grade, and thereafter, as Superintending Engineer.

2. In the year 1998, the petitioner was in-charge of Arial Rope Way and Sand Gathering Station, in the Kothagudem area of the company. One of the employees working under him was a Tyandal in the category of Mazdoor, by name Mallaiah. He intended to avail the benefit of voluntary retirement in the year 1996, two years before he attained the age of superannuation. However, since it was found that his son cannot be extended the benefit of compassionate appointment, due to his under age, the employee has withdrawn the proposal.

3. On 29.4.1998, the wife of Mallaiah, by name B.Yelamma, submitted an application to the petitioner, stating that her husband died due to ill-health, on 27.2.1998, while in service, and that she may be extended the terminal benefits. A death certificate issued by the Commissioner of Municipality was also enclosed. The application was forwarded by the petitioner, to the concerned authorities, and ultimately, the General Manager of the unit sa