High Court Judge Withdraws from Krrish Case

COLOMBO (News 1st); Colombo High Court Judge Manjula Thilakaratne has recused himself from the ongoing case involving allegations of misappropriation of Rs. 70 million related to the Krrish transaction.

The case, which has drawn significant public attention, involves Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa.

The Attorney General filed the case against Rajapaksa, accusing him of misappropriating funds provided by the Indian company Krrish for the development of rugby in Sri Lanka.

Judge Thilakaratne announced his decision to step down from the case in open court, citing concerns over social media comments made by Sanath Balasuriya and Poddala Jayanta.

These comments, posted on Facebook, suggested that the judge might not be able to deliver impartial justice in the case. In light of these concerns, Judge Thilakaratne decided to recuse himself to maintain the integrity of the judicial process.

Following Judge Thilakaratne's recusal, the case will be referred to Colombo Chief High Court Judge Aditya Patabendige for the appointment of a new judge to oversee the trial.