S. B. Sinha, J.

1. The petitioners who are 64 in number have questioned an order dated 3l-3-l992 issued by the Joint Secretary to the Government, department of Agriculture, Government of Bihar (Respondent No.6) and a direction by the Joint Director of Agriculture, Kosi Division, (respondent no.5) and as contained in Annexures-11 and 12 to the writ application whereby the petitioners had been transferred outside Kosi Division. A special Agriculture Area programme started in the year 1965 in Purnea and saharsa Districts, temporarily for a period of one year. The said period had been extended from time to time.

2. According to the petitioner, the Director of Agriculture. Bihar by a letter dated 29 8-1978 directed creation of a unified cadre including the staff of Godown Keepers, Typists and Clerks as the Cadre of Lower Division clerks The said order is contained in Annexure-3 to the writ application.

3. The petitioners were allegedly promoted to the post of Upper division Clerks. By a letter dated 7-7-1982 the Joint Secretary to the government, Department of Agriculture sent a letter that the cadre of only ministerial and fourth Grade staff of Purnea and Katihar will remain se