M.Y.EQBAL, J.

1. Whether in case of promotions on the basis of "Seniority-cum- Merit", comparative merit of the candidates along with seniority have to be judged and whether allocation of less marks for seniority and more marks for assessment of work and interview is permissible when promotion is to be made on "Seniority-cum-Merit" basis, are the two significant and interrelated questions which have necessitated this reference to the Full Bench.

2. These two Letter Patent Appeals, one filed by the respondent Bank and another by the private respondents, whose promotion has been challenged, arose out of judgment dated November 20, 1991 passed by learned single Judge in C.W.J.C. No. 927 of 1991.

3. The facts may be noticed with relative brevity having relevance to the issues aforesaid. The writ petitioners who are respondent Nos. 3 to 5, in L.P.A. No. 209/91 R filed CWJC. No. 927/91R for issuance of appropriate writ in the nature certiorari for quashing the office order dated March 30, 1991 purported to have been issued under the seal and signature of respondent No. 2, Chairman Ranchi Kshetriya Gramin Bank, whereby and where under appellant Nos. 1 to 6 who are respondent Nos.