Indika Sampath Imadoowage vs. Justice Anil Gooneratne PC Chairman – CA WRIT 81/2023-2024

In the case between Indika Sampath Imadoowage (Petitioner, former Chief Jailor) and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Public Service Commission, and associated prison authorities (Respondents), the court addressed the legality of the petitioner’s removal from service under the alleged Vacation of Post (VOP) and the subsequent retirement orders. It was determined that the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and the Public Service Commission had erred in both factual and legal assessment by failing to consider the extraordinary circumstances compelling the petitioner’s absence, and by disregarding his ongoing loyalty and proven service. The court quashed both decisions, reaffirming the principle that discretionary bodies must exercise independent judgment based on actual facts and not mechani