Seylan Bank PLC vs. Dr. R.H.S. Samarathunge et al. – CA WRIT APPLICATION 226/2017-2021

In the case between Seylan Bank PLC and various state officials including the Secretary to the Treasury and the Hon. Ministers of Finance, the court addressed whether Seylan Bank PLC, as a mortgagee of property vested under Act No. 43 of 2011, is entitled to receive the full compensation awarded by the Compensation Tribunal and whether a statutory duty exists to pay the outstanding balance via a writ of mandamus. The court found that the respondents are obligated under statute to pay the balance of the awarded compensation which remains outstanding. Referring to statutory provisions, the court emphasized that the clear legislative and judicial directions bind the respondents to complete payment. The order reaffirms the enforceability of compensation awards to mortgagees for vested properti