Kapukotuwa Mudiyanselage Jayatissa vs Divisional Secretary – SC APPEAL 169/2014-2022

In the case between Kapukotuwa Mudiyanselage Jayatissa (Petitioner-Appellant) and the Divisional Secretary (Serunuwara) and others (Respondents), the court addressed whether the petitioner, who had long-term unauthorized possession and cultivation of state land, was afforded due process in the inquiry preceding the issuance of a state land permit to another individual. It was held that the absence of proper notice and the denial of an opportunity to participate in the inquiry violated the rule of natural justice, specifically the principle of Audi Alteram Partem. The court set aside the prior judgment, quashed the issued permit, and directed that a fresh, independent inquiry with proper notice be conducted. This decision clarified the importance of procedural fairness in administrative pro