Darmaraja Nilithi Prasadi vs. Southlands College et al. – SC APPEAL 63/2018-2023

In the case between Darmaraja Nilithi Prasadi (Minor), represented by her Guardian ad litem Perumal Darmaraja, and respondents including the Principal of Southlands College, Galle; the Director of National Schools; and the Secretary to the Ministry of Education, the court addressed the issue of alleged infringement of fundamental rights under Articles 12(1) and 14(1)(e) of the Constitution relating to non-admission to Grade One at Southlands College, Galle. It was held that the petitioner’s right to equality had been violated due to procedural irregularities, particularly the deduction of marks based on an erroneous application of the “Proximity of Residence” criterion and a lack of adherence to prescribed admission guidelines. The findings established that administrative authorities must