Kahandage Colman Edward Silva & Others vs. A.M. Punchibanda & Others – SC APPEAL 182/2014-2017

Brief
In the case between Kahandage Colman Edward Silva and others (Plaintiffs/Appellants) and A.M. Punchibanda (deceased) and others (Defendants/Respondents), the court addressed the issue of the validity and binding effect of a settlement agreement regarding the partition and title of land known as “Neludande Agatha.” It was held that the absence of a properly produced certificate of non‐settlement (P14) meant that any settlement arising from the Conciliation Board proceedings did not properly bind the parties, particularly as a minor was involved and not adequately represented. The principle reaffirmed is that settlements affecting land title under the Conciliation Board Act must comply strictly with statutory requirements, failing which the parties are not bound. This decision relied o