R.A.Darmadasa Vs. Hon Attorney General – CA HC/88/2016-2017

In the case between R.A. Darmadasa (Accused-Appellant) and the Hon. Attorney General of Sri Lanka (Respondent), the court addressed whether the sentence imposed by the High Court under section 355(b)(2) of the Penal Code for grave sexual abuse was appropriate, given amendments reducing the minimum sentence and considering the personal circumstances of the accused. The findings established that while the conviction remained undisputed, arguments were advanced for leniency on grounds of age, family responsibilities, financial hardship, and statutory amendments. The holding determined that a reduction of the sentence was warranted, reducing rigorous imprisonment from 20 to 15 years, with all other terms unchanged. This decision reaffirmed the principle that sentencing must balance the gravity