Induruwe Arachchige Dickson alias Kapila Bappa vs Republic of Sri Lanka – CA APPEAL NO. 19/2010-2013

In the case between Induruwe Arachchige Dickson alias Kapila Bappa and the Republic of Sri Lanka, the court addressed the issue of whether the sentence of 10 years’ rigorous imprisonment, imposed for grave sexual abuse of a minor, was excessive and warranted reduction. It was held that although the offence was grave, the sentence imposed was excessive considering the accused’s age at the time of the incident, and the term of imprisonment was reduced to 7 years. The fine and compensation awards remained unchanged. The principle reaffirmed was that sentencing discretion should be exercised in light of all circumstances, including the age of the offender, and that the court retains the authority to modify sentences where warranted by mitigating factors. This determination relied on relevant s