Balangoda Plantations PLC vs. Land Reform Commission – SC APPEAL 157/2018-2025

In the case between Balangoda Plantations PLC (Plaintiff) and the Land Reform Commission, The National Gem and Jewellery Authority, and Janatha Estates Development Board (Defendants), the court considered whether a substantial error of law had occurred when the High Court set aside a default order and permitted the 1st respondent to proceed with a defence under Section 86(2) of the Civil Procedure Code. The core issue involved assessing whether the explanation given by the 1st respondent, attributing the default to an error arising from miscommunication about court numbering, could be deemed an abuse of process. The findings established that the actions of the 1st respondent revealed a negligent attitude and inconsistency in the explanation provided, rendering the conduct an abuse of proce