V. Ramasubramanian, J.

1. The writ appeals arise out of the dismissal of a batch of writ petitions challenging the method of fixation of seniority among directly recruited Assistant Engineers in the Highways Department, on the ground of delay and laches.

2. We have heard Mr. N.R. Chandran and Mr. R. Muthukumarasamy, learned Senior Counsel and Mr. N. Subramaniyan, learned Counsel appearing for the appellants, Mr. S. Gomathinayagam, learned Additional Advocate General, assisted by Mr. R. Ravichandran, learned Additional Government Pleader for the State, Miss.C.N.G.Niraimathi, learned counsel appearing for the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission Mr. K. Venkataramani and Mr. Vijay Narayan, learned Senior Counsel and Mr. N.G.R. Prasad, learned Counsel appearing for the contesting respondents.

3. On 10.07.1999, a Notification for direct recruitment Assistant Engineers in the Public Works Department and Highways Department, was issued by the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission.

4. After a process of selection, comprising of a written examination and oral interview, the Service Comm