Paramasivam Raja vs Hon. Attorney General – CA NO. 103/2009-2013

In the case between Paramasivam Raja (Accused-Appellant) and the Hon. Attorney General, Sri Lanka (Respondent), the court addressed the issue of whether the sentence imposed for the conviction of rape of a minor under sixteen was excessive in terms of the length of imprisonment and amount of compensation. It was held that the original sentence of 10 years’ rigorous imprisonment, a fine, and compensation to the victim was reasonable and should not be altered. The principle was reaffirmed that sentencing discretion must account for both the gravity of the offence and the circumstances of the victim, particularly considering the victim’s youth and consequential hardships. This decision relied on the interpretation of statutory sentencing provisions and recognized judicial precedent, emphasizi