N.W. Chaminda Pramuditha Lanka et al. vs Geological Survey and Mines Bureau et al. – CA WRIT/140/2021-2023

In the case between N.W. Chaminda Pramuditha Lanka and others (Petitioners) and officials of the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau and Ministry of Environment (Respondents), the court addressed the legality of the appointment of the 3rd Respondent as Director General of the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau. The central issue concerned compliance with the mandatory procedural and statutory requirements prescribed by section 6(1) of the Mines and Minerals Act, No. 33 of 1992, particularly focusing on the necessity of proper consultation with the Bureau’s Board and the lawfulness of both acting and permanent appointments. The findings established that the appointments were made without adherence to required procedures, specifically lacking a defined term for the acting appointment and abse