Removal of Archeology Dept bill boards: Local body officials released on bail

 

Following the court proceedings, M. A. Sumanthiran PC met with officials of Valaichchenai,   Koralaipattru Pradeshiya Sabha officials today. 

Valaichchenai Magistrate Courts granted bail for five individuals including Chairman of Valaichchenai Pradeshiya Sabha, Koralaipattru and Deputy Chairman over removal of billboards that were erected by the Department of Archeology last week. 

Appearing for the four suspects who appeared before the Courts today (November 25), President Counsel M. A. Sumanthiran informed the Courts that the charges filed by the police saying alleged theft of bill boards and removal of billboards that were put up the Department are baseless since no approval was obtained from the local body.

An individual was taken into custody by police on Sunday (23) following a complaint lodged by Department of Archeology and a directive issued by Minister of Public Security Aananda Wijepala. 

On Saturday, officials attached to the local body removed illegally erected billboards that were put up in several places by the department declaring regions are protected archeological sites. 

Sumanthiran PC argued that as per Paradeshiya Sabha Act 1985 of No 15, local bodies are vested with powers on rural roads that are under their jurisdiction and approval has to be obtained if any bill boards are to be showcased in roads. 

He also submitted to the Courts that the officials merely carried out their duties using the powers vested under the local body. 

Police filed charges  in the B report under Sections 369,410 and 417 of Code of Criminal procedure. 

Officials represented the Department acknowledged that no such approval was obtained from the department. The Court was told that the department can follow due procedures to obtain approval from the local body and the case can be resolved amicably. 

The court granted bail to five individuals under personal surety of Rs 500,000 and instructed both parties to resolve the issue before December 15. (

Along with Sumanthiran PC, senior lawyer Vijayakumar Sebastian, Attorney at Laws A. Nithansan, Suja Kandasamy, Mayoori Tharmathas, and Riwan appeared on behalf of local body officials.  (Northeastern Monitor/ November 25/2025)