A.D. Sunil Kumara vs Hon Attorney General – CA 86/2013-2013

In the case between A.D. Sunil Kumara (Appellant) and the Hon. Attorney General (Respondent), the court addressed the appropriateness of the default sentences imposed for non-payment of a fine and compensation, following a conviction resulting in a 15-year prison term. The appellant did not challenge the primary custodial sentence but sought reconsideration of the sentences imposed in default of payment and requested backdating of the sentences. After considering submissions, it was held that the default sentences should be reduced to six months’ rigorous imprisonment for non-payment of the fine and one year’s rigorous imprisonment for non-payment of compensation, in substitution of the five-year terms originally imposed. The requests for backdating and for judicial action under Section 35