JUDGMENT

Amrita Sinha, J. - The petitioners press the application for passing interim order in the matter. After hearing submissions, it appears that the writ petition itself can be disposed of on the basis of arguments advanced by both the parties. Since affidavits are over, by consent of the parties, the main matter is taken up for hearing.

2. The petitioners are serving as Laboratory Technicians in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC for short) on contractual basis for more than ten years. They pray for issuance of a writ of mandamus to regularise their service.

3. Pursuant to an advertisement published by the Municipal Commissioner, KMC for walk-in-interview, for appointment of Laboratory Technicians, on contractual basis, the petitioners reported and participated in the said walk-in-interview held in April, 2010. A list containing candidates, eligible for appointment, was published. The petitioners being successful in the interview were enlisted for appointment.

4. The petitioners were issued a formal letter of engagement in April, 2010. The contract was for a period of six months, with an option for extension, depending upon satisfactory performance and necessity of KMC. Th