Sumithra Premaratne v. Republic of Sri Lanka – sllr 1998 volume 3 page 341

The case between Sumithra Premaratne (Accused-Appellant) and the Republic of Sri Lanka (State) addressed the issue of alleged illegal possession of heroin under section 54A(d) of the Poisons, Opium and Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. It was held that the prosecution failed to establish its case beyond reasonable doubt due to significant evidentiary shortcomings, including inconsistencies in witness testimonies, deficiencies regarding the chain of custody, and lack of proof relating to critical physical exhibits. The decision reaffirmed the principle that a trial judge must not remain a passive observer but must actively engage in the truth-seeking function of the judicial process. Reliance was placed on relevant judicial precedents affirming the judge’s duty to probe inadequacies and material i