Padmini Nirmala Ranawaka Gunatilake vs. Hon. Upali Abeyrathne – SC/FR/27/2021-2024

Brief
In the case between Padmini Nirmala Ranawaka Gunathilake and others versus the members of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry and associated state officials, the court addressed whether the Commission’s findings and recommendations on alleged political victimization constituted “executive or administrative action” reviewable under Articles 17 and 126 of the Constitution. Consideration was given to whether the processes followed by the Commission, notably regarding fair notice, opportunity to be heard, and adherence to natural justice, infringed the petitioners’ fundamental rights under Article 12(1). It was found that the Commission’s proceedings failed to fulfil the requirements of natural justice and thus breached the petitioners’ constitutional rights. The court determined th