Wickremratne v. Jayaratne and Other – sllr 2001 volume 3 page 161

In the case between Wickremaratne (Petitioner) and Jayaratne and others (Respondents), the court addressed the lawfulness of the State’s acquisition of land under the Land Acquisition Act, specifically focusing on whether statutory procedures—including legitimate expectations based on public assurances—were properly observed. The holding determined that the term “land” under the Act includes the ground, any structures, and interests in the land, thereby expanding its application beyond merely private land interests. The court further established that a legitimate expectation arises when the State or its agents provide assurances that induce reliance, obligating the State to either honor those undertakings or, at minimum, provide an opportunity to be heard before taking adverse action. Rely