Thalawatugoda Siriratna Thero v. Veherewatte Ariyawansa Thero – sllr 1995 volume 2 page 139

In the case between Thalawatugoda Siriratna Thero (Plaintiff) and Veherewatte Ariyawansa Thero (Defendant), the court addressed the issue of lawful succession to the office of Viharadhipathi of the Pokunuwita Temple under the rule of Sisyanu Sisya Paramparawa. The dispute concerned whether the right of succession passed to the senior pupil, Indrajothi Thero, or devolved through the second pupil, Sonuththara Thero, based on alleged appointments. Ultimately, the holding affirmed that succession generally follows the senior pupil unless clear, cogent evidence establishes a lawful specific appointment overriding the general rule. Documentary evidence indicating de facto control was found insufficient to establish de jure rights, and mere non-residence was deemed not to constitute abandonment o