Seven-judge bench to hear FR against Hemasiri and Pujith

Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya has decided to appoint a seven-judge bench to consider the Fundamental Rights (FR) petition against IGP Pujith Jayasundara and former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando for failing to prevent the attacks on churches and hotels, even when intelligence information had forewarned.

The case is to be taken up on July 12.

The petition was filed by Janath S.Vidanage, who is the managing director of a travel company. He cited IGP Pujith Jayasundara, former defence secretary Hemasiri Fernando and DIG Priyalal Dasanayake and the AG as respondents.  

The petitioner is seeking court for a declaration that the respondents had violated the fundamental rights to equality and equal protection by law as well as the freedom to engage in lawful occupation and business.