Helambage Sajith Kelum vs Rohana Wasantha Kumara – SC WRIT 03/2024-2024

In the case between Helambage Sajith Kelum and Deneththi Mihiri Kanchana Mendis (Petitioners) and Officials of the Elections Commission and related government officers (Respondents), the court addressed the issue of whether the removal of the Petitioners’ names from the 2023 revised Electoral Register was effected following a proper process of verification and due inquiry. The court determined that the administrative process leading to the deletion was deficient, specifically noting the absence of proper verification and reliance on unreliable evidence by the Grama Niladhari, in violation of the “No Evidence Principle.” The holding required that the Petitioners’ names be reinstated in the Electoral Register, reaffirming the principle that administrative decisions affecting fundamental righ