R.S. Roland Genedius Karunarathne vs Janatha Estate Development Board – 352/2018-2023

In the case between R. S. Roland Genedius Karunarathne (Plaintiff) and the Janatha Estate Development Board (JEDB) along with the Land Reforms Commission and other government agencies (Defendants), the court addressed the legality of a lease agreement for 66 acres of Mount Pearl Estate, the subsequent authority exercised over the land, and the validity of notices and termination orders issued against the petitioner’s cultivation rights. It was held that a prima facie issue necessitating judicial intervention was established, particularly regarding the appropriate authority over the land and the due process surrounding the contested quit notice and lease cancellation. The principles applied emphasized the necessity for protection of lawful investment and the proper exercise of statutory aut