Sri Lanka Transport Board vs M.D.K. Padmasena – SC APPEAL 68/2022-2025

This case involves Sri Lanka Transport Board and M.D.K. Padmasena. The core legal issue was whether Padmasena’s retirement at age 58 constituted a lawful retirement due to an alleged failure to apply for a further service extension, or an unlawful termination of service. The Labour Tribunal and the Provincial High Court ruled in favor of Padmasena, inferring that an extension application had been duly made because work continued for a few days after the official retirement date. The Supreme Court, in its judgment, found this inference to be illogical and unsupported by the evidence, highlighting inconsistent claims and a lack of documentary proof. The Supreme Court allowed the appeal, setting aside the orders of the lower courts and dismissing Padmasena’s application.

S. Thurairaja, ACT