Mohan, J.

An important question arising in this batch of cases is whether the Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act, 1947 (hereinafter referred to as the Shops Act), is applicable to the Nationalised Banks and to the State Bank of India.

2. We would first note the facts leading to writ appeals Nos. 561 & 562 of 1983. They arise out of W.P. Nos. 2013 and 2014 of 1979. W.P. No. 2013 of 1979 is for mandamus to direct the first respondent to dispose of the preliminary objection raised by the Management of Bank of India, Regional Office. Southern Region. represented by Assistant General Manger. Madras, in regard to the maintainability of T.S.E. Case No. 49 of 1975 on the file of the Additional Commissioner for Workmen's Compensation-II. Madras, in the appeal preferred by the employee C. V. Raman, under S.41 of the Act.

3. W.P. No. 2014 of 1979 is for prohibition to prohibit the Additional Commissioner from proceeding to take up for disposal T.S.E. Case No. 49 of 1975.

4. The employee, C. V. Raman, the appellant in W.A. Nos. 561 and 562 of 1983, was working in the Bank of India. His services came to be terminated by the said Bank by an order dated 17th April, 1975. For the purp