Jayaratne v. Fernando and Others – sllr 2000 volume 3 page 069

In Jayaratne v. Fernando and others, the court addressed the legality of cancelling a government quarters allocation without proper written authority or adherence to procedural safeguards. It was held that the cancellation, based on an alleged oral ministerial order and executed without notice, reasons, or a hearing, was arbitrary and violated the petitioner’s fundamental right under Article 12(1) of the Constitution. The principle reaffirmed is that administrative actions affecting legal rights must comply with prescribed procedures and written authority as stipulated in the Establishments Code. Relief was provided, including reinstatement of the quarters allocation, refund of penal rent, and an award of compensation, underscoring the need for accountability and due process in public serv