K.S. Radhakrishnan, J.

Petitioner was working as Headmaster in the Government U.P. School, Neduorakkad, Cherthala. He retired on superannuation on 31.3.1998. A few days before the date of retirement, that is on 17.3.1998, he submitted an application before the Government for correction of date of birth in his service records, so that he could continue in service as Headmaster till 31.3.1999. The request of the petitioner was rejected by the Government by order dated 5.5.1998 stating that the application of the petitioner for correction of date of birth in the service records cannot be entertained, since he did not apply for the same within the time-limit stipulated in Government Order, G.O.P.N0.45/91/P&ARD dated 30.12.1991. Petitioner is aggrieved by the said order, and hence has approached this court.

2. Petitioner entered service of the General Education Department as Primary Departmental Teacher on 7.1.1969. At the time of entry into service the date of birth given by the petitioner was 15.12.1942. Going by the said date, he was to retire on 31.3.1998, which he did.

3. Government issued an order dated 30.12.1991, referring to various earlier orders and circulars, with r