Though this matter is listed in the Interlocutory matters, since both the learned counsel have agreed for the disposal of the main writ petition itself, this writ petition is being disposed of.

The petitioners, in this writ petition, seek a writ of Mandamus declaring the action of the respondent in not considering their case for the post of Volunteers in respondent’s Annadanam Canteen or any other posts as illegal and arbitrary and consequently to direct the respondents to appoint them by giving preference to their experience.

Section 10 of the Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970, is as follows.

10. Prohibition of employment of contract labour:-(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, the appropriate Government may, after consultation with the Central Board or, as the case may be, a State Board, prohibit, by notification in the Official Gazette, employment of contract labour in any process, operation or other work in any establishment.

(2) Before issuing any notification under sub-section (1) in relation to an establishment, the appropriate Government shall have regard to the conditions of work and benefits provided for the contract labour in t