Kurugama Tea Factory (Pvt) Ltd vs. Sri Lanka Tea Board – WRIT 195/2020-2022

In the case between Kurugama Tea Factory (Pvt) Ltd and the Sri Lanka Tea Board (including its Chairman, Director General, and Tea Commissioner), the court addressed the legality of suspending a tea factory’s registration without prior notice or an opportunity to be heard. It was held that, under the Sri Lanka Tea Control Act and the principles of natural justice, suspension of a factory’s registration must be preceded by a fair inquiry, including adequate notice and an opportunity for the affected party to respond. The decision reinforced the principle that “audi alteram partem” (the right to a fair hearing) is fundamental and must be observed in administrative actions with serious consequences. Reliance was placed on statutory requirements and established case law, with the court finding