Ajith P. Dharmasuriya vs Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka – SC FR APPLICATION NO. 330/2015-2015

In the case between Ajith P. Dharmasuriya (Petitioner) and the Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka, its officials, and other state bodies (Respondents), the Court addressed whether the petitioner’s application was filed within the prescribed time under Article 126 of the Constitution and complied with Supreme Court Rules. The matter involved challenges to the validity of permits relating to Victoria Reservoir reservation lands, and allegations of arbitrary action by the Mahaweli Authority. The findings established that technical non-compliance with procedural requirements should not preclude substantive examination of fundamental rights petitions, especially when constitutional principles such as the protection of the environment and equality before the law are engaged. Reliance was placed on