W.M. Jayaweera and P.G. Leelawathi Jayaweera vs. The Commissioner General of Excise, et al. – CA WRIT/633/2011-2011

In the case between W.M. Jayaweera and P.G. Leelawathi Jayaweera (Petitioners) and the Commissioner General of Excise, Department of Excise, and others (Respondents), the court addressed the lawfulness of refusing to approve the relocation and transfer of the Petitioners’ FL 04 liquor license. It was held that the refusal decision was justified, as genuine public objections were found and all relevant procedural requirements, including those in Excise Notification 902, were fulfilled. The principle reaffirmed is that regulatory authorities must act within lawful authority, observe procedural fairness, and duly consider public concerns while providing opportunities for both parties to present their cases. Reliance was placed on authorities such as Karunadasa v Unique Gem Stones and the stan