(L. Narasimha Reddy, J.)

In this batch of writ petitions, the common order dated 17-03-2010 in O.A.Nos.11590 of 2009 and batch, and similar orders passed in other OAs, by the A.P. Administrative Tribunal (for short ‘the Tribunal’) are challenged. The petitioners figured as respondents in all or some of the original applications. The subject-matter of the OAs was the fixation of seniority of Prohibition and Excise Inspectors (for short the ‘Inspectors’) in the Department of Prohibition and Excise, Government of Andhra Pradesh.

The Andhra Pradesh Excise Subordinate Service Rules (for short ‘the Rules’) was issued through G.O.Ms.No.202, dated 16-02-1961. The post of Inspector figured in category 1 therein. The method of appointment to the post used to be through direct recruitment, to the extent of 40%, and the remaining, through promotions. However, from the year 1997 onwards, appointment to all the posts is only through promotion.

In the year 1993, steps were initiated to fill up the posts of Inspectors through direct recruitment in various zones of the State. The task of selection of the candidates was entrusted to the A.P. Public Service Commission (for short ‘the A.P.P