Kevitiyagala Ananda Thero v. Uliyankaduwala Wimalasara Thero – sllr 1999 volume 3 page 038

In the case between Kevitiyagala Ananda Thero (represented by his pupil as plaintiff-respondent) and Puliyankaduwala Wimalasara Thero (defendant-appellant), the court addressed the determination of rightful incumbency to an ancient Buddhist temple under Buddhist Ecclesiastical Law, specifically considering the traditional mode of succession known as Sisyanu Sisya Paramparawa. It was held that the plaintiff established a valid right to be controlling Viharadhipathy, supported by documentary and historical evidence confirming long-standing control and legitimate succession. The decision reaffirmed the principle that pupillary succession governs incumbency in such temples, and a temporary appointment or occupation does not confer lawful incumbency. This outcome relied on historic records, tem