W.T. Ariyarathne vs Hon. Attorney General – CA PHC NO.52/2005-2005

In the case between W.T. Ariyarathne (Appellant) and the Hon. Attorney General (Respondent), the court addressed the issue arising from an appeal regarding the occupation of certain premises. The court held that, due to the appellant vacating the premises prior to the resolution of the appeal, and the appellant’s counsel moving to withdraw the appeal with no objection from the respondent, the withdrawal was approved and the appeal was accordingly dismissed. This outcome reaffirmed the principle that proceedings rendered academic or moot by the cessation of the underlying controversy should be dismissed. The decision acknowledged the procedural propriety of withdrawal in moot circumstances, emphasizing the efficient administration of justice and judicial economy.

K. T. Chitrasiri J. — It