1. By Ext. P1 notification dated 1-3-1982 the Kerala University invited applications from qualified candidates for appointment to the post of Reader in Chemistry. The petitioner and the 4th respondent applied; and the Selection Committee consisting of the Vice Chancellor, a Syndicate member, two experts from outside and the Professor of Chemistry (id the Kerala University) selected the 4th respondent for the post. The petitioner challenges this selection on the ground that the 4th respondent was not sufficiently qualified for being considered, either at the time the notification was issued or at the time the selection was made.

2. Under the Regulations framed by the Academic Council of the University, a person could be appointed as Reader in Science only if he possesses the following qualifications:

(i) A First Class Master's Degree or a Second Class Master's Degree with not less than 50% marks of an Indian University or an equivalent qualification of a foreign University in the Subject concerned;

(ii) Either a research degree of a Doctorate standard or published work of a high standard;

and (iii) About five years' experience of teaching at a University or College and some