H.A. Manoj Talis vs Inspector Hiriyadeniya et al. – SC FR NO. 430/2005-2017

In the case between H. A. Manoj Talis (Plaintiff) and a group of police officers and officials (Defendants, specifically the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 6th Respondents), the court addressed the issue of unlawful arrest, torture, and violation of fundamental rights during police custody. It was held that the arrest and detention of the plaintiff were illegal and the actions of the specified respondents constituted breaches of constitutional rights, including protection from torture and the right to liberty under Articles 11, 12(1), 13(1), and 13(2) of the Constitution of Sri Lanka. The court reaffirmed the principle that public officials are accountable for actions that breach constitutionally protected rights and ordered compensation to the petitioner. Findings emphasized the reliance on medi