G Wijitha Pieris v. Mithrasena Wickremage – CA PHC/264/2006-2017

In the case between G Wijitha Pieris and Mithrasena Wickremage, Acting General Manager, National Water Supply and Drainage Board, the court addressed the lawfulness of eviction orders issued under the State Lands (Recovery of Possession) Act. It was determined that the eviction of the Appellant from state land, as ordered by the Magistrate and affirmed by the High Court, was correct in law. The court reaffirmed that the scope of inquiry under Section 9 of the Act is strictly limited to the occupant’s possession of valid state authority or permit, excluding broader considerations of title or ownership. The decision relied on relevant Supreme Court precedents, emphasizing that Magistrates are precluded from examining wider property rights during proceedings under this Act. The takeaway from