Case Note & Summary
The matter comprised multiple writ petitions filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India before the High Court of Judicature at Madras. The petitioners, individuals holding posts in various District Central Co-operative Banks, sought a declaration that the amendment to Rule 7(3) of the Tamil Nadu Co-operative Societies Rules, effected through G.O. Miscellaneous No.11 dated 24.01.2024, and the consequent provisional seniority list dated 29.05.2024 were ultra vires Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution. The respondents included the Government of Tamil Nadu represented by the Secretary, Co-operation, Food and Consumer Protection Department, the Registrar of Co-operative Societies, the Additional Registrar of Co-operative Societies/Chairman Common Cadre Authority, and Managing Directors of several District Central Co-operative Banks. Advocate V. Prakash appeared as senior counsel for the petitioners, while Special Government Pleader M. Geetha Thamaraiselvan represented the government respondents. No arguments or decision were recorded in the available text; the proceedings remained at the admission or initial hearing stage. The core grievance centred on the alleged violation of fundamental rights to equality in matters of public employment due to the impugned rule change and seniority list.
Issue of Consideration
Whether the amendment to Rule 7(3) and the consequent provisional seniority list are ultra vires Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution.
