Balakrishnan Nair, J.

Whether the writ petitioner, who is a physically challenged person, appointed under Rule 9(a)(i) of Part II of the Kerala State and Subordinate Services Rules (for short K.S. & S.S.R) on 4.8.1998, on being sponsored by the Employment Exchange and who joined duty on 5.8.1998, in the post of Pump Operator under the Kerala Water Authority on daily wage basis, is entitled to re-appointment in service, is the point that arises for decision in this Writ Appeal.

2. The physically challenged are our less fortunate brothers. The fate has been cruel to them. Most of us, who are fortunate not to have physically challenged children, cannot fathom the depth of their pain and anguish, caused by their disability. It is the duty of the society to ensure that they are extended equal opportunities in all walks of life. Our Parliament has enacted the Persons With Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995, Providing special protection to physically challenged persons, to enable them to gain equal opportunities in various fields, including the employment market where cut throat competition prevails and survival of the fitte