S.V. Selvaraja vs M.A.J. Anthony Mendis – CA PHC NO. 132/2007-2013

In the case between S.V. Selvaraja and M.A.J. Anthony Mendis (Superintendent, Gonakale Estate, Passara), the court addressed the issue of whether an appeal should be maintained when the appellant failed to deposit brief fees and could not be served with notice due to an untraceable address. It was determined that reissuing notice in such circumstances would be futile. The court held that non-compliance with procedural requirements—including service of notice and payment of brief fees—mandates rejection of the appeal, but preserved the appellant’s right to apply for relisting if so advised. The principle emphasized is that adherence to procedural rules is essential for the administration of justice, relying on established court procedures and emphasizing that practicality in service of proc