Chandra P. Withana vs. Divisional Secretary, Nuwaragam Palatha East – CA/WRIT/505/24-2024

In the case between Chandra P. Withana and the Divisional Secretary, Nuwaragam Palatha East, Anuradhapura, along with related state land officials, the court addressed the validity of the petitioner’s claim to ownership of premises No. 04, Harischandra Mawatha, Anuradhapura. It was held that the petitioner failed to establish a valid title or legal right to the premises merely by letters from the Chief Minister or related documents, and did not possess a proper permit or authorization under the State Lands (Recovery of Possession) Act. The principle reaffirmed was that title to state land cannot be acquired through administrative correspondence without compliance with statutory procedures and clear, specific relief sought. The decision was based on statutory requirements under the State La