Ariyaratne v. Sri Lanka Institute of Architects – sllr 2001 volume 3 page 287

In the case between Ariyaratne (petitioner) and the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (respondent), the court considered whether the Institute, incorporated under the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects Law No. 1 of 1976, exercises a public function and is thus subject to writ jurisdiction. The court determined that the Institute’s statutory authority conferred a public character, making its actions amenable to judicial review. It was held that once a candidate meets the prescribed qualifications, admission as a Corporate Member in the category of Associate is mandatory. The court relied on statutory analysis and precedent to emphasize that the Institute’s public duties override contractual arguments, thereby allowing the petition for mandamus and ordering admission with costs.

J. A. N. DE