Thelge Pradeep Kumara vs The Attorney General – CA 66/2012-2017

In the case between The Attorney General of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and Thelge Pradeep Kumara, the court addressed the issue of the conviction and sentencing for grave sexual abuse under Section 365B(2)(b) of the Penal Code. It was held that the conviction was supported by the evidence, but the sentence imposed by the trial court was found to be illegal and inappropriate. The principle reaffirmed is that sentencing for grave offences must be in accordance with statutory requirements and proportional to the gravity of the crime. Reliance was placed on the Penal Code and relevant procedural statutes, with the key takeaway being the necessity for courts to ensure sentences are consistent with legal standards and the seriousness of the offence.

S. Thurairaja PC J. — Th