SANKARASUBBAN, J.:- The subject matter of these cases is selection to the Engineering and allied courses and M.B.B.S. and allied courses in the colleges in Kerala for the year 1996. Separate prospectus is issued for the Engineering and allied courses and M.B.B.S. and allied courses. The admission is made on the basis of the rank obtained in the Entrance Examination conducted by the Controller of Entrance Examinations.

2. For our convenience, we have grouped the cases into three groups. We heard learned counsel for the petitioners, the Advocate General and other counsel appearing for the respondents. A number of counsel entered appearance. The matter was argued threadbare. We are disposing of these cases on the main disputes raised. We have not considered the individual questions raised. According to us, they are to be looked into by the authorities.

Group No. 1

O. P. Nos. 12291, 12364, 12828, 12833, 12986, 13338, 13340, 13424, 13543, 13571, 13619, 13865, 13870, 13950, 14019, 14038, 14140 of 1996.

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3. Admissions to the various Professional Colleges in Kerala, v