Development Ideology Perspective

Abstract

"The article traces the legal history of Sri Lanka -- highlighting the assumptions relating to individual rights to property made in colonial law. The author then discusses the move away from adjudication by means of an adversarial system towards the establishment of conciliation boards for dispute resolution. The impact of sociopolitical forces on the legal relations between land owners and professional rice harvesters (Govias) is then described. Legislation within the land reform programme which impinges on individual ownership of land in the commercial interests of Sri Lanka as a whole is reviewed. The system of administrative tribunals precluding access to the courts is discussed. Judicial review from this legislation and the constitutional issues arising therefrom in a sociopolitical context are also discussed."