Khalique Jauffer vs Royal College, et al. – SC F R APPLICATION NO. 140/2019-2019

In the case between the Petitioners (the father and minor child) and the Respondents (Royal College Colombo 07 authorities, Principal, Ministry representatives, and associated boards), the court addressed the legality of the deduction of four marks for school proximity in the Grade 1 admissions process at Royal College. It was held that the deduction of marks was improperly applied, as Mahanama College—being referenced for the deduction—did not admit children of the Petitioners’ faith, rendering the deduction contrary to the rules set out in the relevant circular. The principle reaffirmed was that mark deductions for proximity require the comparative school to be available for actual admission under its policies. The court found a violation of the Petitioners’ fundamental rights under Arti