LEGAL BRIEF PROGRAM - DECEMBER 2023
In order to increase capacity, participation, and interest among the legal fraternity of Sri Lanka, the society envisioned and created the 'Legal Brief' program. This program entails a series of discussions where senior practitioners from the legal profession discuss legal issues pertaining to environmental law in the country. The second session of this series was held on December 16, 2023. Her Ladyship Justice Shiranee Tilakawardane shared her wealth of knowledge and experience on the topic 'Environmental Justice, Education, Skills, Tools, and Attitudes.' A number of young lawyers who are enthusiastic about environmental law actively participated in this valuable lecture.
LEGAL ACTION TAKEN
Soragune WRIT Petition
WNPS, together with the Centre for Environmental Justice, filed a writ action against the Department of Wildlife Conservation, Central Environmental Authority, Department of Forest Conservation, and others regarding the large-scale deforestation activities in the Bogahapelessa Forest Reserve in Soragune. It has been reported that approximately 50,000 acres of this forest reserve have been parcelled out to influential businessmen and politicians, claiming that these lands belong to the Nindagama of Soragune Kuda Katharagama Devalaya. This deforestation has had a clear impact on the catchment area of Veli Oya. The respondents filed their answers on October 30, 2023. Counter objections were filed on November 14th, 2023. The case was scheduled for argument on January 22nd, 2024, with a new date set for May 14th.
Wedaththalathive Case
A petition is being filed by WNPS and Environmental Foundation Limited (EFL) against the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) for permitting the construction of 14 pillars within the Wedaththalathive Nature Reserve. A team from WNPS, along with 7 other conservation organizations, visited the site in order to document evidence prior to filing the action. They were able to obtain an undertaking from the Attorney General that construction of the pillars will not continue until the Attorney General provides a proper explanation as to why the pillars were constructed initially. The case was slated for further deliberation on January 29th, 2024, with a subsequent date set for May 15th.
