Superintendent, Udaweriya Estate, Agarapatana Plantations Limited, Lankem Tea and Rubber Plantation Limited vs. Lanka Wathu Seva Sangamaya – SC APPEAL NO. 79/2012-2020

In the case between K. Jayaratne (the Workman, represented by his trade union) and Agarapatana Plantations Limited, Lankem Tea and Rubber Plantation Limited, and the Superintendent of Udaweriya Estate (Employers), the central issue concerned whether the termination of the Workman’s employment for alleged theft of made tea was legally justified. The court determined that the High Court had erred in overturning the Labour Tribunal’s decision by incorrectly assessing the evidence and misapplying the standard of proof required for labor disputes. It was held that the evidence supporting the allegation of theft was credible and sufficient under the standards applicable in labor matters. The Supreme Court set aside the High Court’s order, restored the Labour Tribunal’s decision upholding the dis