Lyensa Fernando and Another vs. Dissanayake and Others – sllr 2021 volume 3 page 335

In the case between LyenSA Fernando and Another (petitioners) and Dissanayake and Others (including school authorities and government officials), the court addressed the application of Circular No. 24/2018 governing Grade 1 admissions in public schools. The issue was whether the interview board’s awarding of marks, particularly for proof of residence, additional documents, and proximity to school, was rational and in conformity with Article 12(1) of the Constitution. It was found that the deduction of marks for proximity was excessive due to a misapplication of the relevant criteria, resulting in a breach of the petitioners’ fundamental rights. The court held that the exclusion of the 1st Petitioner was unlawful and ordered remedial admission with compensation. This decision reaffirmed tha