Dr. A M Jazeel vs Eastern University, Sri Lanka – CA/WRIT/340/2020-2024

Brief
In the case between Dr. A M Jazeel and Eastern University, Sri Lanka (including its Vice Chancellor, Governing Council, and University Grants Commission), the court addressed whether the recruitment process for the post of Senior Lecturer (Grade II) was lawfully followed or amounted to an ultra vires act, and whether the Petitioner’s legitimate expectation of appointment was violated. It was held that the proper procedure was followed, consistent with the marking scheme approved by the Governing Council, and that there was no breach of legal expectation or procedural impropriety. The principle reaffirmed is that public authorities must act within their statutory powers and adhere to established procedures, and that no right of legitimate expectation arises where criteria are not met.