Koneshalingam vs Major Muthalif – sllr 2004 volume 3 page 226

In the case between Koneshalingam (petitioner) and Major Muthalif (respondent), the court addressed the issue of alleged violations of fundamental rights under the Sri Lankan Constitution, specifically Articles 11, 13(1), and 13(2). It was held that the arrest and detention of the petitioner were unlawful due to lack of reasonable suspicion, failure to inform the petitioner of the reasons for arrest, and the absence of a valid detention order. Medical evidence substantiated claims of assault during custody. The holding reaffirmed the principle that procedural safeguards must be maintained in arrests and detention under constitutional law. Reliance was placed on constitutional provisions safeguarding liberty, highlighting the necessity that law enforcement authorities comply strictly with p