J.M. Malani Hemalatha and R.M.P Joseph Perera vs Divisional Secretary et al. – 213/18-2022

In the case between Mrs. J.M. Malani Hemalatha and Mr. R.M.P Joseph Perera (Plaintiffs) and, among others, the Divisional Secretary, Divisional Secretariat, Pallama, and Dona Mariya Fladees Lihinikaduwa (Defendants/Respondents), the court addressed the legality of the cancellation of state land permits. It was held that the relief sought by the petitioners was not warranted due to suppression of material facts and lack of candor in their writ application, reaffirming the principle that discretionary writ remedies demand parties act with full and frank disclosure and utmost good faith. This decision drew upon established legal precedent and academic commentary, underscoring the requirement for transparency in applications for judicial review. The court dismissed the application for certiora