M.N.M. Sanfi and others vs N.H. Premawathie and others – CA WRIT APPLICATION NO: 151/2017-2021

In the case between M.N.M. Sanfi and others (Petitioners, members of the School Development Society, Mummana, Dambadeniya) and several educational and governmental authorities, the court addressed whether the Petitioners were entitled to writs of Certiorari and Mandamus to compel exclusive acquisition and use of a parcel of land as a school playground. It was held that no legal duty existed to acquire the land solely for school use, nor were the decisions permitting community use of the playground unlawful. The principle reaffirmed was that writs of Certiorari and Mandamus require clear demonstration of legal right and duty, and legitimate expectation does not arise where actions have been consistent with previous shared use and stated purposes. Reliance was placed on governing statutes re