Saman Ratnayake vs National Police Commission et al. – SC FR 350/2016-2016

In the case between several police officers and retired police officers (Petitioners) and the National Police Commission, various ministers, and officials (Respondents), the court addressed whether the promotion of a specific police officer (the 17th Respondent) violated the Petitioners’ fundamental rights under Article 12(1) of the Constitution. The central issue concerned the legality and constitutional compliance of administrative actions related to police promotions following allegations of political victimization. The court held that the promotion at issue was compliant with the operative Cabinet decisions and did not infringe upon the seniority or rights of the Petitioners. It was reaffirmed that individual promotions enacted through a Cabinet directive, particularly in the context o