J U D G M E N T

Heard the learned counsel on either side.

2. It is stated by the learned counsel appearing for the appellants that the first appellant Govindammal and the third appellant Meenakshisundaram passed away. The second appellant Sarala and the fifth respondent Shanthi who are already on record are the legal heirs of the first appellant. Jeevanandham who is the son of the deceased third appellant is suo motu impleaded as the fourth appellant.

3. One Murugaiyan @ Murugesan was employed in Bharath Heavy Electricals Ltd., Trichy. He was working as Senior Assistant Grade- II. He passed away on 30.01.1997. There is no dispute that the first plaintiff Govindammal was his legally wedded wife. Through the said wedlock, the second plaintiff Sarala and the third plaintiff Meenakshisundaram and the fifth defendant Shanthi were born. Murugaiyan @ Murugesan also had relationship with one Sarasu, the second defendant. Sarasu claimed that she is the second wife of Murugaiyan @ Murugesan. There is no dispute that defendants 3 and 4 were born to Murugaiyan @ Murugesan through Sarasu. Murugaiyan @ Murugesan had nominated Sarasu as the person to receive his terminal benefits. Apprehending that