Dr. R. J. Welikala & Others vs Prof. (Mrs.) Priyani A. Paranagama & Others – CA WRT/0527/2019-2023

The case between Dr. R. J. Welikala, Dr. A. B. Dharmaratne, and others (Petitioners) and the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Commissioner of Ayurveda, and officials of the Institute of Indigenous Medicine (IIM) (Respondents) addressed the authority of the UGC to approve and regulate university programs, specifically the MD (AYU) program at the IIM. The court determined that the UGC acted within its statutory authority in suspending the MD (AYU) course when the IIM failed to fulfill required curriculum standards. It was held that the decision to suspend the program was both lawful and in accordance with principles of natural justice. The court relied on the Universities Act and relevant statutory instruments, emphasizing the UGC’s exclusive power to approve courses and curricula, re