Unique Gemstones Ltd. v. Karunadasa. W. and Others – sllr 1995 volume 2 page 357

The case between Unique Gemstones Ltd. and W. Karunadasa and Others addressed whether the failure of the Commissioner of Labour to provide reasons for terminating an employee’s service violated the principles of natural justice. It was held that the absence of reasons in administrative orders contravenes principles of fairness and natural justice, reaffirming the requirement for transparency in administrative decisions under the Termination of Employment of Workmen (Special Provisions) Act. Relevant precedent and statutory principles were relied upon to emphasize that even if legislation is silent, the obligation to provide reasons is implicit in the broader interest of justice, with the exception of matters concerning state security. The impact of the decision underscores the necessity fo