W. Sugandi Preethimaliee Medagonawila vs Officer-in-Charge Polpitigama Police – CA PHC 0249/2017-2022

In the case between W. Sugandi Preethimaliee Medagonawila (Appellant) and the Officer-in-Charge, Polpitigama Police along with other Respondents, the court addressed whether the appeal should proceed when the appellant was absent and unresponsive. It was held that, given the appellant’s absence at the hearing and lack of response after notice was sent by registered post (with no return, implying delivery), the appeal demonstrated a lack of interest and was therefore dismissed. This decision reaffirmed the principle that appellate proceedings require active engagement by the party seeking relief, emphasizing that the judicial process will not continue in the absence of such engagement.

Menaka Wijesundera J. — It was determined that the appellant was absent and unrepresented at the hearing