PILAPITIYA v. CHANDRASIRI AND OTHERS – 1978_79_80 volume 1 page 361

Brief
In the case between Pilapitiya and Chandrasiri & Others, the court addressed the issue of whether the publication, sale, and distribution of newspapers containing false statements during an election campaign amounted to corrupt practices under the Ceylon (Parliamentary Elections) Order in Council. It was held that such activities, when conducted by or on behalf of a candidate’s agent, can constitute corrupt and illegal practices, resulting in the invalidation of the election result. The principle reaffirmed was that the burden of proof for election offences lies with proof beyond reasonable doubt. This decision was based on both statutory interpretation and an assessment of evidence credibility, emphasizing strict standards for electoral integrity and the consequences of publishing d