Dr. Chandana Kasthuriarachchi vs. University of Colombo and Others – CA WRIT 359/2020-2022

In the case between Dr. Chandana Kasthuriarachchi (Petitioner) and the University of Colombo and others (Respondents), the court addressed whether a termination of employment by a public authority constitutes a private contractual matter or is subject to judicial review, specifically through prerogative writs such as certiorari or mandamus. It was held that employment dismissals, where statutory powers are exercised, require compliance with the rules of natural justice, but are not necessarily subject to writ jurisdiction unless a public duty is implicated. The judgment reaffirmed the principle that judicial intervention through prerogative writs is limited where the dispute arises from contractual employment terms, even if statutory powers are involved. This decision relied on statutory f