AG decides not to defend Nilantha Jayawardane

• The petition was re-fixed for support on July 25   

BY Lakmal Sooriyagoda   

The Attorney General’s Department has informed the Court of Appeal that the Attorney General would not appear on behalf of Senior DIG Nilantha Jayawardane in a writ petition filed against him for his omission and serious dereliction of duty which led to the Easter Sunday attacks.  

The Centre for Society and Religion had filed this writ petition in the Court of Appeal seeking an order to conduct a credible investigation and take appropriate actions against Senior DIG Nilantha Jayawardane for his omission and serious dereliction of duty which led to the Easter Sunday Bombing in 2019.  

When the matter was called before the Court of Appeal, two-judge-bench comprising Justices Sobhitha Rajakaruna and Dhammika Ganepola, Counsel appearing on behalf of Nilantha Jayawardena informed the Court that they expect to present limited objections against this petition. The petition was re-fixed for support on July 25.   

The Centre for Society and Religion, its Chairman Fr. Rohan Silva and Surach Nilanga, a victim of Easter Sunday attack filed this petition naming Inspector General of Police (IGP), Senior DIG Nilantha Jayawardena and the Attorney General as respondents.  

The petitioners are seeking a Writ of Mandamus, directing the IGP and the Attorney General to forthwith take steps to initiate appropriate action to facilitate the carrying out of the findings and recommendations of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry appointed in connection with the Easter Sunday attacks.  

Counsel Ermiza Tegal appeared for the petitioners. 

President’s Counsel Chandaka Jayasundera appeared for Nilantha Jayawardane. Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara appeared for the IGP and the Attorney General.