Kodituwakku Aratchi v. Neliya Wadugodapitiya – sllr 1992 volume 2 page 286

In the case between Kodituwakku Aratchi (Plaintiff) and Neliya Wadugodapitiya (Defendant), the court addressed whether the defendant qualified as a “dependant” under section 36(2)(a)(i) of the Rent Act and could thus succeed to the tenancy following the death of the previous tenant. It was determined that genuine dependency arises principally from a familial relationship and that the term “dependant” must be strictly interpreted to exclude relationships established solely on contractual employment, such as those of a domestic servant. The decision relied on statutory interpretation principles and relevant precedents, reinforcing that only family-related dependants are eligible for tenancy succession under the Rent Act. The finding clarified the statutory distinction, ensuring that mere con