Sujoy Paul, J.

In these batch of petitions, the grievance of the petitioners is common. They are aggrieved by order dated 15.07.2005 whereby their juniors/private respondents are promoted on the post of Account Officer/Estate Officer.

2. The petitioners contended that they were working as Branch Officer/Estate Manager. The gradation list showing position as on 1.1.2001 (Annexure P/4) shows that petitioners are senior to private respondents. The names of petitioners find place at No. 4, 5, 7 and 8 whereas the names of private respondents are at No.9,12 and 13. The reliance is placed on another gradation list showing position as on 1.4.2005 (Annexure P/5) wherein petitioners names are mentioned at No.1,2,3 and 4 whereas private respondents are at Nos. 5, 6, and 7.

3. Shri S.P. Rai, learned counsel for the petitioner contended that promotion in question is to be made by applying provisions of M.P. Public Service (Promotion) Rules, 2002 (hereinafter referred to as "Promotion Rules). It is submitted that as per rule 2(f), the respondent/Board is covered under the definition of "