K.K. Usha, J.

These original petitions are referred for consideration of a Larger Bench under reference order dt. 25.10.1995. According to the Bench which referred these matters, following points arise for consideration:

"(a) whether the decision in O.P.5002/88 requires reconsideration?

(B) In the absence of a regulatory rule regarding promotion of Diploma holders acquiring degree, how their seniority is to be worked out; and whether their seniority while holding Diploma should be reckoned for the purpose of promotion in the category of Degree holders, in view of the decision of the Division Bench in W. A. No. 106/80.

(C) Should there be two separate seniority list, one for degree holders and the other for diploma holders, or there shall only be a single seniority list as held in O.P. No. 2172/ 89 dt 30.9.91."

2. The sole petitioner in O.P. 15008/93 and the two petitioners in O.P. 1392/95 were Assistant Executive Engineers in the service of Kerala State Electricity Board,

(hereinafter referred to as 'the board) at the time of filing the original petitions. They challenge the action taken by the Board in not granting them promotion in the degree quota on the basis of their ent