N. K. Nanda Manike vs W. P. Gunapala – CA NO. 718/2000 F-2013

In the case between N. K. Nanda Manike (Plaintiff/Respondent) and W. P. Gunapala and W. P. Dayawathie (Defendants/Appellants), the court examined whether the plaintiff was the valid permit-holder of state land described in the plaint and if the defendants possessed a legitimate legal claim or title. The plaintiff presented evidence including a land permit issued under Section 19(2) of the Land Development Ordinance and a preliminary survey plan, while the defendants offered neither permit nor proof of ownership, instead relying on a letter and payment that did not substantiate their claim to the property. The findings established that the transfer of land granted under Section 19(2) of the Land Development Ordinance cannot occur through such documents. Upholding the trial court’s decision,