Sri Lanka Telecom Ltd. vs. Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka and Others – SC APPEAL NO. 215/12-2017

In the case between Sri Lanka Telecom Ltd. and the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (including associated respondents), the court addressed whether a recommendation issued by the Human Rights Commission, which affects the rights and interests of a public body, is subject to judicial review and quashing by a writ of certiorari. The determination established that such recommendations, even when classified as non-binding within the statutory scheme, possess sufficient legal effect to warrant review if they impact substantive rights. The decision set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal and ordered a rehearing. Reliance was placed on Sections 15(7) and 15(8) of the Human Rights Commission Act, supported by relevant authorities. The outcome clarified that statutory recommendations impa