ORDER

The order of regularization dated 01.04.2003, regularizing the services of the writ petitioners in the sanctioned post of Grade-III Librarian with effect from the date of joining as Grade-III Librarian is under challenge in the present writ petition.

2. The petitioners state that they were appointed by the District Library Officer, Dharmapuri/third respondent as Village Librarian on consolidated pay salary of Rs.1,000/- (Rupees one thousand only) per month. The petitioners are working as Village Librarian and considering their long services in the post of Village Librarian, the respondents regularize the services of the writ petitioners in the post of Grade-III Librarian, which is a sanctioned post in the time scale of pay. However, the benefit of regularization and permanent absorption was granted from the date on which they were appointed as Grade-III Librarian.

3. The learned counsel appearing on behalf of the writ petitioner contended that the benefit of regularization and permanent absorption is to be granted retrospectively with effect from the date on which the petitioners were initially appointed as Village Librarian and therefore, the order of regularization passed wit