Sivapragasam and Others vs Perimpanayagam – sllr 2004 volume 3 page 390

In the case between Sivapragasam and Others (Plaintiffs) and Perimpanayagam (Defendant), the court addressed whether the delegation of planning functions under the Urban Development Authority Act enabled the Mayor to seek demolition orders against unauthorized structures and whether occupants of such structures could claim protection as tenants under the Rent Act. It was determined that the delegated authority incorporated enforcement actions allowing the Mayor to initiate demolition proceedings. Further, it was found that tenants occupying premises without legal authorization could not invoke the protection of the Rent Act, as the statute does not extend to rights arising from illegality. The appeal against the demolition order was dismissed, and costs were awarded, reaffirming the princi