W. Suvinipala v. The Peoples’ Bank – SC APPEAL 03/2011-2014

In the case between W. Suvinipala and The People’s Bank, the court addressed the issue of whether the termination of employment of the respondent was unlawful and unjustifiable, and whether the resulting disciplinary measures, including enforced early retirement and payment of half salary, were valid. It was held that the disciplinary action was not executed by the lawful authority and, thus, the termination was both unlawful and unjustifiable. This decision reaffirmed the principle that unlawful termination cannot be legitimized by partial fulfillment of employment obligations such as reduced salary payment. The court relied on findings of the Labour Tribunal and the Provincial High Court, and clarified that the remedy of compensation, rather than reinstatement, was appropriate in the cir