Basheer, J.

1. Since the issues involved in these writ petitions are common and closely inter related and also since they arise from the common order passed by the Central Administrative Tribunal, Ernakulam Bench in a batch of Original Applications, they are being heard and disposed of through this common judgment.

2. Bereft of unnecessary details, the facts which are essential for disposal of these cases may be briefly noticed.

3. Department of Electricity under the Administration of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep issued Annexure-A1 notification on April 22, 2008, inviting applications from eligible candidates for appointment to the post of Oilman/Mazdoor. In fact, ten vacancies were notified in the said notification. Later, a corrigendum notification was issued on July 24, 2008 indicating that only seven vacancies were available. (We will deal with this issue a little later).

4. The educational qualifications prescribed for the post in the notification are extracted hereunder:

"1. SSLC pass.

2. ITI Certificate in Electrician, Wireman or Mechanic Diesel." (emphasis supplied)

5. It is beyond controversy that candidates holding Diploma in Electrical and Electronic