Madulsima Plantations PLC vs. R. T. P. Sumanasekera, Divisional Secretary and others – CA/WRIT/0012-19-2024

In the case between Madulsima Plantations PLC (lessee of Venture Estate) and state officials including R. T. P. Sumanasekera (Divisional Secretary), relevant Ministers, Sri Lanka State Plantations Corporation, and the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority, the court addressed the legality of acquiring a portion of Venture Estate for a hydro power project. It was held that the petitioner’s challenge was not legally sustainable, as a valid permit had been issued under Section 18 of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority Act, justifying acquisition of the land for a public purpose. The principle reaffirmed is that once a lawful energy permit is granted, statutory authority for land acquisition is satisfied. The judgment relied on provisions of the SLSEA Act and supporting documentary evi