( 1. ) FOR the first time, this matter came before us on 14-10-1987. On that day, two alternative prayers were pressed before us vide LA. Nos. IV and V - for issuance of ad interim writ, in the alternative early hearing of the matter on merits for final disposal. We were then informed that since April, 1985, the petitioner had not been paid salary and indeed, it was admitted, "he had refused salary which was paid to him less but not according to rules". We immediately fixed 20-10-1987 for hearing of the matter on merits. However, at this stage, it may be noted that on an earlier occasion, on 17-6-1987, prayer for interim writ as per LA. No. III was also pressed before the learned Vacation Judge, but the prayer was rejected even at that time taking the view that the dispute between the parties was to be decided on merits.

( 2. ) UNFORTUNATELY, despite our best efforts, hearing could not be completed on 20-10-1987 and thereafter on various dates, prayers were made for adjournment on behalf of the respondents/state and further hearing was reluctantly postponed from lime to time. However, we heard counsel again on 2-12-1987 and on 16-12-1987 when the matter was further heard,