Madurapperumage Kanchana Priyadarshini Madurapperuma vs Kelum Sangeeth and others – SC/FR/37/2020-2025

The case involves a fundamental rights application by Madurapperumage Kanchana Priyadarshini Madurapperuma, challenging her arrest and detention under two Detention Orders dated 30th January 2020 and 6th February 2020, issued under the Poisons, Opium, and Dangerous Drugs Ordinance and the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act. The Petitioner claims her rights were violated due to prolonged interrogation and the issuance of the Detention Orders, particularly the second order, which she argues was invalid as it was issued without a Minister of Defence in office. The Respondents, including police officials and the Secretary of Defence, assert the Detention Orders were lawfully issued following her arrest for possession of heroin and firearms.

S. Thurairaja, PC, J. stated that