(Petitions under Art.226 of the Constitution of India, praying for a Writ of Mandamus, directing the 2nd and 3rd respondents to process the petitioners' applications for the written examination and oral test for selection of the post of Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (Direct Recruitment) in the Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Services for the year 2005-06.)

Common Order:

A.P. Shah, C.J.

As these writ petitions involve common question of law and facts, they are being disposed of by this common judgment and order.

2. In August, 2005, the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (in short 'the Commission') invited applications in respect of appointments to the post of 'Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (Direct Recruitment) in the Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Services for the year 2005-06. The total number of vacancies specified in the notification was 250. Clause 6 of the Notification prescribed the following qualifications:

"6. QUALIFICATION:

Candidate should possess the following or its equivalent qualification on the date of the Notification viz. 05-08-2005:

B.V.Sc. Degree of any University or Institution recognised by the University Grants Commission for the purpose of its grant; and

Must be