-A Group of Lawyers Write to the Minister
(Lanka-e-News -14.Dec.2024, 11.00 PM) A shocking disclosure has emerged regarding highly unjust practices occurring at the Debt Relief Department established in Kurunegala in 2021. A copy of a letter sent by a group of lawyers to the Minister of Justice sheds light on these irregularities.
To: Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara (Attorney-at-Law)
Minister of Justice and National Integration
Ministry of Justice
No. 19, Sri Sangaraja Mawatha, Colombo 10
Date: 11.12.2024
This letter addresses the unjust practices associated with the Kurunegala Debt Relief Board, chaired by P.S.K. Ratnayake and involving H.C. Gamage.
Unethical Operations by Chairman P.S.K. Ratnayake:
Former High Court judge P.S.K. Ratnayake, notorious for his corruption, is accused of operating in a biased manner. Key members of the board include J.G.N. Tilakaratne (a former education director who aligns closely with Ratnayake) and W. Senanayake, known for her straightforward approach but complicit in some questionable decisions.
Gamage appears at the board only on Wednesdays, where cases he advocates for receive special treatment, often resulting in decisions favoring his clients. There are serious concerns about manipulated case schedules and judgments tailored to suit Gamage’s interests, allegedly in exchange for monetary benefits.
Case No. 43694: Discrepancies between the petitioner’s claimed monthly income and the granted loan amount were overlooked. The judgment disregarded financial realities, reflecting bias.
Case No. 45865: A clear title deed was wrongfully contested as collateral, with decisions influenced by Ratnayake’s partiality towards Gamage.
Case No. 45025: A one-sided verdict was delivered, reinforcing concerns about lack of impartiality.
Evidence Tampering and Record Alteration:
Multiple cases have shown altered case records and manipulated evidence to favor certain parties, particularly those represented by Gamage. Such actions undermine the integrity of the board’s operations.
Intimidation and Suppression:
Board member W. Senanayake attempted to take corrective action but was met with retaliation, including internal conflicts instigated by Ratnayake and Tilakaratne.
Tragic Outcomes for Borrowers:
Innocent borrowers have faced severe consequences, including property loss and, in one tragic case, suicide, after biased judgments left them with no recourse.
Misuse of Authority in Collusion with Financial Institutions:
The board has allegedly developed improper relationships with certain financial institutions, manipulating cases to benefit these entities while marginalizing claimants.
The board’s corruption has dissuaded senior attorneys from engaging with it, tarnishing its reputation and leading to widespread disillusionment among legal professionals.
The letter urges the Minister of Justice to investigate these allegations thoroughly and ensure that justice is restored within the Kurunegala Debt Relief Board. The ongoing corruption and unethical practices are causing irreparable harm to innocent borrowers and undermining public trust in the justice system.
The above details are presented as evidence of the need for immediate intervention and reforms.
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by (2024-12-14 23:54:41)
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