Gallage Don Sunil Shantha v. Dissanayake Mudiyansalage Kusuman Patricia – SC APPEAL NO.226/14-2017

In the case between Gallage Don Sunil Shantha and Dissanayake Mudiyanselage Kusuman Patricia, the court addressed the issue of possessory rights and the validity of a title declaration regarding shop premises situated on state land. It was held that, although evidence supported the plaintiff’s longstanding possession of the property, the District Court’s award of title in favour of the plaintiff was erroneous since the property was confirmed to be state land. The principle reaffirmed is that courts cannot grant title to individuals regarding state land absent lawful state authorization. The decision was grounded in documentary and testimonial evidence, as well as analysis of prior judicial proceedings, underscoring that possession may be protected, but title cannot be conferred contrary to